Celeste Sikora

Background

About Celeste Sikora

Dynamic Philanthropy and Fundraising Leader with a distinguished track record of raising over $84M collectively, including securing multiple seven-figure and six-figure gifts. Equipped with a robust skill set in strategic planning, fund development, capital campaigns, and volunteer engagement; with proven success in surpassing year-over-year revenue goals. Proficient in all phases of the sales cycle, including lead generation, prospecting, cultivation, solicitation, and closing.Adept at fostering a culture of philanthropy and implementing effective fundraising strategies from inception to execution. • Raised over $82M collectively, securing four (4) 7-figure gifts and over fifty (50) 6-figure gifts from a strategically managed donor portfolio. • Possess well-established relationships with affluent individual donors and businesses within the Denver Metro area. • Leadership experience overseeing all fundraising, operational, and scholarship campaigns at 4 Community College Campuses. • Directing Development efforts for regional performing arts organization and increasing Annual Membership by 25% within one year. The only cultural institution in the Denver metro area to increase membership during a recession. • Capital Campaign experience, soliciting gifts for $30M to $6M campaigns for large cultural institutions to startup nonprofits. • Corporate Relations and business-to-business experience with Colorado’s Scientific and Cultural Facilities District Tier 1 Organization. • Sponsorship experience directing state, regional, and national sponsorship sales within an 11-state region. • Extensive Special Event Management for both revenue-generating and stewardship events including Galas, Golf Tournaments, Grandparents and Special Friends Day, Soirees, and Donor VIP receptions, with record-breaking revenue and attendance goals year over year.