Sandra Thompson

Background

About Sandra Thompson

Sandra Thompson currently holds the position of Director of Development for Chester Ridley Crum Watersheds Association in Newtown Square, PA. In that role she has been working on creating and implementing a development and fundraising program to provide for the short and long term needs of the organization. As part of that development plan, Sandra is working closely with the Executive Director and the marketing specialist to upgrade the website and systematize an overall marketing strategy to increase visibility and awareness. She also heads up the Education and Outreach committee and is leading their efforts to expand programming, both online and in person, to maximize CRC’s relevancy to a larger base. In addition, Sandra is spearheading the process with the board and staff to craft a vision for the future by analyzing who CRC is now and what they want to become. Creating this vision will then be the base for building a much needed strategic plan that guides staff and board to develop annual goals to facilitate CRC’s growth and expansion. In 2015, as Executive Director of The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts (The Acorn) in Three Oaks, Michigan, in a bold move to stabilize the organization, Sandra led a complex effort to convert the for-profit business to a nonprofit organization. In just 6 years, under her skilled leadership and business acumen, The Acorn became what is now a vital, solvent, dynamic institution. Such an undertaking can often take decades for nonprofits, if it happens at all. During her tenure there, in response to the pandemic, she orchestrated a stunning “pivot” by creating the brand Acorn Anywhere! which enabled the organization to survive the 18 months that the theater remained dark. Whether it’s in the arts, or environmental conservation, Sandra’s contagious enthusiasm and ability to envision and implement a path for growth inspires those around her. She also enjoys writing, is an avid gardener, birding enthusiast, musician and Pickleball player!