The Zoological Society of Florida (ZSF) recently announced that Jeffrey Fischer- Smith has been appointed senior director of development effective Aug. 4. Fischer- Smith is an accomplished development executive with more than 25 years of experience in the field.
“It is a pleasure to welcome Jeffrey as the new senior director of development here at the ZSF,” said William “Bill” Moore, Zoological Society of Florida president and CEO. “He is an expert fundraiser who possesses a keen ability to work with donors at the seven and eight figure level.
“Jeffrey will create new and exciting fundraising programs for the ZSF while also maintaining our donor relations and generating many new supporters,” Moore added. “Our goals for the new Florida: Mission Everglades exhibit, set to open in 2016, will be met with the aid of our staff’s determination and the knowledge of Jeffrey’s experience.”
Fischer-Smith maintains proficiency in planned giving and competencies in special events and annual giving. He has worked in capital campaigns ranging from $75 million to $1.5 billion. Additionally, he has led teams of up to 14 development professionals managing all facets of fund development, including principal and major gifts, planned giving, institutional giving, membership, annual giving, and special events.
Fischer-Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornell University where he majored in government and minored in theater arts. He currently is pursuing a Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing from Spalding University.
“It is exciting to be back in Miami and to be serving this unique, one-of-a-kind, cultural gem in our city. I look forward to working with philanthropic investors to build this already stellar institution into a world-class destination,” Fischer-Smith said.
The Zoological Society of Florida, founded in 1956, is the non-profit support organization for Zoo Miami that encourages an appreciation for the world’s wildlife and helps conserve it for future generations. Today, it is one of the largest membership organizations in South Florida with more than 15,000 member households with activities and programs that include: volunteer services, education programs, special events, and member programs.
During its 58-year history, the ZSF has served as the principal private fundraising arm for Zoo Miami and since 1998 as its principal marketer. The ZSF and Zoo Miami are currently planning to build the Florida: Mission Everglades exhibit and a new front entry plaza set to open in 2016.
