Lehigh Valley Public Radio (WDIY) has appointed Jessica Aviva as Development Strategist. The role tasks Aviva with strengthening the station’s donor network, as well as building a fundraising and resource network to support the station’s long-term growth.
Aviva is the Founding Director of The Fruition Coalition, an education and consulting service, has authored more than 15 books, and secured over $35 million for nonprofit programs and projects over her career.
As Development Strategist, Aviva will work alongside WDIY Executive Director Margaret McConnell, as well as WDIY staff and board leadership, to strengthen the station’s development program. Aviva’s work will center on creating sustainable fundraising systems, expanding the individual and corporate network of station support, and identifying new fundraising opportunities.
McConnell said, “WDIY has accomplished tremendous growth with a very small staff, but our next chapter requires us to build the infrastructure behind that growth. Jessica brings the strategic experience we need to help us move from simply raising money to building a comprehensive development program that can sustain WDIY well into the future. This is an investment not only in fundraising, but in the long-term strength of the station.”
Aviva commented, “I’m excited to work with WDIY at such an important moment in its history. WDIY has earned the support of this community over many years, and that support is the foundation for what comes next. Our work will focus on creating a development program that is strategic and sustainable. That means deepening relationships with the people and organizations who already believe in WDIY while creating new opportunities for others to invest in its future. Ultimately, we want to build the capacity that will allow the station to continue delivering the programming that makes it a vital part of the region’s civic and cultural life.”
