Dr. Shelly Myers named executive director for Westlake Academy Foundation

by PegNews wire

DALLAS — Westlake Academy announced today that it has named Dr. Shelly Myers as the new executive director of the Westlake Academy Foundation, where she is responsible for fundraising and coordination of fundraising-related events for Westlake Academy, a public charter school that offer the International Baccalaureate curriculum.

A senior fundraising professional, Dr. Myers’ prior position was in Wormleysburg, Penn., as director of development and alumni relations of Harrisburg Academy. During her five-year tenure at the school, Dr. Myers was responsible for the most significant period of growth in the academy's non-tuition revenue. She directed a comprehensive program that raised over $4.5 million; managed a $1 million endowment campaign; increased annual giving over 125%; and secured $1.5 million for scholarships through Pennsylvania’s business tax credit program, among other fundraising efforts.

Dr. Myers received her Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota; her M.S. from the University of Illinois; and her B.S. and B.A. from the University of Charleston, where she was named outstanding senior of the year and was a recipient of an alumni association award. She also attended the National Planned Giving Institute, at the College of William & Mary.

“Westlake Academy is delighted in the decision made by the Foundation Board to appoint someone of Shelly’s caliber and credentials to this important position as a member of the Academy’s team,” said Tom Brymer, CEO of Westlake Academy. “As the Academy continues to grow in terms of numbers of students, it is important to grow our curricula and programs which take financial resources. Shelly brings a proven track record as a school foundation development officer which will greatly enhance Westlake Academy’s ability to pursue new donations and funding sources for us.”

Dr. Myers is currently working on three fundraising efforts for the academy: the Blacksmith Annual Fund; Westlake Baja Cross Country Golf Tournament at the Vaquero Club, benefiting the Academy’s Fund100, established to develop, retain, and recruit legacy teachers; and the academy’s annual Gallery Night in February.

“Dr. Myers has hit the ground running as she directs the various fundraising events currently in progress,” said Leah Rennhack, Westlake Academy Foundation board president. “Her energy, expertise and passion for first class success have been inspiring, and the entire board is excited about the possibilities that her successful experience brings to the foundation's efforts.”

The Westlake Academy Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, was established in 2003 to raise funds to support the operations, capital requirements and long-term endowment needs of Westlake Academy.

Source: Westlake Academy