Lane Hosmer is “in what I call my discovery phase” at Straz Center.
Hosmer, Straz’s chief development officer, began here in July.
“I’m taking the time to understand operations and donor relationships — to get to know the people and the processes,” Hosmer said. “I have been so impressed with the pride our staff and our donors take in Straz Center.”
Gala for Straz Center adds an exclamation point to Hosmer’s discovery.
“I am also impressed with the scope and talent involved in Gala for Straz Center,” Hosmer said. “As our most important fundraiser of the year, I appreciate the dedication of our Gala Chairs and committee members in making sure the event is a success,” Hosmer said.
Hosmer had high praise for this year’s co-chairs, Angel and Rose Gonzalez, saying that they “will bring new excitement to the evening. I look forward to experiencing one of Tampa Bay’s premiere galas.”
This isn’t Hosmer’s first gala, though.
Hosmer came to Straz from New York City’s award-winning Roundabout Theatre Company, where he was the development director. While there, he cultivated and stewarded individuals for major gifts, identified and fostered corporate partnerships and produced fundraising events. Such as Galas.
He also was GLAAD’S director of corporate relations and was for a time a Tampa Bay area resident when he served as executive director of Festival of States, a civic celebration in St. Petersburg that was held annually through 2014.
In all, Hosmer has more than 30 years of not-for-profit management experience, much of that time focused on fundraising for arts and arts education. He has brought a wealth of both experience and enthusiasm to his new workplace.
“Straz Center’s reputation made this a place I wanted to grow my career,” Hosmer said. “I enjoy spending my days supporting this worthwhile cause and its important community programs.”
He’s looking forward to Gala, as well as the impact this and other fundraisers have on Straz’s mission.
“As a not-for-profit we rely on events like the Gala to raise funds to support our arts education programs that transform lives by providing students of all ages with immersive experiences in opera, dance, theater and music,” Hosmer said.
“It is very clear that Straz Center makes an incredibly meaningful impact in the Tampa Bay community,” Hosmer said. “I am thrilled to see the arts in Tampa Bay thriving.”
Gala for Straz Center takes place Oct. 17. The evening begins with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction before Gala’s celebrated tradition of dinner on Morsani Hall’s stage. Performances throughout the evening will spotlight dance, musical theater and opera. And just when you think the party will start winding down, it springs to new life with After Dark, Gala’s speakeasy-inspired late night soiree featuring desserts, cocktails and dancing on into the night.
For more information on Gala for Straz Center, visit our website or call 813.229.7827.