Big Brains Join the National Arts Fundraising School team | Steph Graham & Susan Fisher
As demand for high quality fundraising training grows, and our alumni seek more specialist advice, we need more capacity to provide support. So we’re super excited that we’ve managed to persuade two cultural fundraising stars to bring their special brand of iridescence to the National Arts Fundraising School team.

As of April’s programme we’ll be welcoming Steph Graham and Sue Fisher, both an informal part of what has been called the ‘Northern Fundraising Powerhouse.’ Though note they are from different sides of the Pennines…

We’re delighted to welcome Sue Fisher as a specialist coach for anyone undertaking a major project or one with a heritage focus. Sue has over 20 years’ experience in fundraising, working predominantly in the arts, cultural and heritage sectors. She was the Director of Development for the Science Museum Group, and worked with the University of Oxford’s central development function at the Ashmolean Museum. She’s currently Director of Development for English Heritage.

She has supported arts and culture organisations as a trustee and consultant helping organisations grow philanthropic capabilities.  Her expertise is in developing teams, leading successful £multi-million capital campaigns and securing support from HNWIs.

She’ll be providing one to one coaching to any participants looking to deliver  a major project and needing specific intense support.

Sue said: “I’m delighted to bring my skills and experience in the high net worth and major campaign fields to people attending the School. Big ambitions require a different kind of thinking and I’m hoping my support will be helpful to people who are bringing their big ambitions to the programme.”

The other news is the addition of Steph Graham as a School project leader. Steph describes herself as an arts sector consultant helping artists and cultural organisations achieve their fundraising, sustainability and business development goals. She has developed a broad, cross-sector perspective and a proven track record by working with micro-organisations and national institutions. She has worked for Arts Council England multiple times in a variety of different roles.

Her specialisms include fundraising strategy, strategic bid-writing and funder relationship management. Steph has a keen interest and background particularly in visual and disability arts.

Steph said: “I cannot wait to be part of the NAFS team, and to use my fundraising knowledge and experience to support NAFS participants to reach their goals – especially in corporate and foundation fundraising. I was a NAFS participant at the start of my fundraising career, and I cannot stress enough how much I have used the skills and expertise developed on the course in my work, to great effect.”

Bernard Ross, director of the School, responding to the news of the additions, said “wow.” That seemed enough. 😉

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