Florida Grand Opera (FGO) has announced the appointment of a new director of development, Thomas Schramm, effective immediately.
“Over and above his years of experience, Tom brings a true dedication and leadership to his work,” said Bob Heuer, FGO’s general director and CEO. “We are excited to have found someone who shares our views on donor relations, believing in the development of long-lasting relationships that will grow not only our resources but also what we consider to be the FGO family.”
An exceptional communicator and team builder, Schramm comes to FGO with 25 years of experience earned in some of South Florida’s most reputable medical institutions. Most recently, he served as development officer for Baptist Health South Florida, leading fundraising efforts for Homestead, Doctors, West Kendall and Baptist Children’s hospitals.
Among his highest professional achievements are securing $500,000 for high definition cameras and visual equipment for the surgery department at Homestead Hospital and the successful conclusion of two capital campaigns raising a combined total of more than $10 million for new hospital construction. He also expanded Homestead Hospital’s relationship with NASCAR, resulting in more than $1 million cumulative contributions.
As director of Development and Community Relations for the Sunrise Community, Schramm advised in fundraising efforts throughout Florida as well as six additional states. It was in this capacity that he secured a $100,000 grant to develop a dental healthcare program for people with developmental disabilities, creating a new line of business for the organization in addition to a much-needed service for the clients, which illustrates his fundraising philosophy.
“Much in line with FGO’s values, I take an approach to development that focuses on nurturing sincere relationships with donors to achieve both their philanthropic goals and the institution’s strategic aims,” Schramm said.
Schramm has excelled in development with director positions at some of South Florida’s most renowned non-profits, such as University of Miami, Miami Heart Institute and American Red Cross. He studied music at the University of Miami and earned a BA in Philosophy with honors from the University of North Carolina. A devoted family man, he lives in Kendall with his wife and three children.
