Laura Abbott

Results-driven nonprofit development professional with more than 20 years of experience advancing arts and community-based organizations through fundraising, donor stewardship, corporate sponsorships, membership engagement, and strategic community partnerships. Proven ability to cultivate meaningful relationships with donors, volunteers, business leaders, and community stakeholders while planning successful fundraising events and increasing organizational visibility. Passionate about strengthening the arts through philanthropy, collaboration, and exceptional donor stewardship.

Development Director at Science Spectrum & Omni Theater (2024-01 – Present)

• Directed fundraising, donor stewardship, sponsorship, and community engagement initiatives supporting organizational growth and long-term sustainability.
• Cultivated relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and community partners to expand philanthropic support.
• Developed sponsorship proposals, donor communications, fundraising appeals, and stewardship strategies that strengthened donor engagement and retention.
• Planned and executed fundraising and community events that increased public awareness, attendance, and revenue.
• Represented the organization throughout the community, building relationships with business leaders, civic organizations, and nonprofit partners.
• Managed donor records, prospect tracking, and fundraising activities utilizing CRM systems.
• Cultivated partnerships that secured significant in-kind donations, including meals for more than 150 volunteers and staff during the four-day CritterFest event.
• Increased rental revenue by 15% through strategic outreach and relationship development.

Branch Coordinator at Apria Healthcare (2022-01 – 2023-12)

• Coordinated daily operations while serving as the primary liaison between patients, physicians, caregivers, and clinical staff.
• Managed complex communications and built strong relationships through responsive customer service and problem-solving.
• Collaborated across departments to improve operational efficiency and client satisfaction.
• Maintained detailed documentation and ensured compliance with healthcare regulations.

Director of Patron Services at Midland Community Theatre (1998-01 – 2022-12)

• Directed patron services and cultivated relationships with more than 5,000 patrons, donors, subscribers, volunteers, and community partners.
• Supported annual fundraising campaigns through donor cultivation, membership renewals, sponsorship engagement, special events, and donor recognition initiatives.
• Worked closely with executive leadership and the Board of Directors to strengthen community support and enhance donor engagement.
• Built long-term partnerships with local businesses, civic organizations, schools, and community leaders to expand audience development and philanthropic support.
• Utilized Salesforce to manage donor and patron records, track giving history, and support targeted fundraising and marketing initiatives.
• Planned and managed donor receptions, opening night events, volunteer appreciation activities, and patron engagement programs.
• Recruited, trained, supervised, and recognized volunteers, creating a highly engaged volunteer program that supported theater operations and special events.
• Served as one of the organization's primary public representatives through presentations, community outreach, and partnership development.

Stage Manager at Moonlight Musicals (2026-01 – Present)

• Coordinate production logistics and communication among directors, performers, designers, technicians, and volunteers.
• Lead backstage operations while managing schedules, problem-solving, and collaboration in a fast-paced performing arts environment.
• Strengthened relationships within Lubbock's arts community through cross-organizational collaboration.