Trisha Gooch

Background

About Trisha Gooch

Visit for more information. After a successful career in the entertainment industry I turned my energies to fundraising in 2002 and eventually into nonprofit management. I enjoy interacting with people and do so with enthusiasm and veracity. My experiences in the entertainment industry inspired how I approach donors as well as staff. As a singer, I learned the importance of listening to my audience. As an actor, I learned that if it didn’t come from a real place, they wouldn't buy it. As a producer/director, I learned that the success of an enterprise rests with the ensemble. In other words, loving what you do, listening to your donors’ and staff needs, communicating clearly and honestly and working with a team dedicated to excellence will make your “show” a hit. I have a bachelor’s degree in writing and editing from the City University of New York and have served in leadership and development roles at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Mainly Mozart, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, San Diego Food Bank, San Diego Second Chance and as executive director for Jean Isaacs San Diego Dance Theater. I have volunteered as Board Secretary for Voices of Our City Choir and at Just in Time for Foster Youth. In addition, I served four years on the board of directors at the San Diego Association of Fundraising Professionals as the Mentorship Chair and Scholarship Chair. I earned my CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) designation in 2010. Prior to following my heart to nonprofit work, my first career was as a professional singer and actress in Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York City. Two special credits include the National Touring Company of "Les Miserables" and the world premiere of "The Who’s Tommy" at the La Jolla Playhouse.