WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Michelle Speas, the lead development professional for Old Salem Museums & Gardens, has received awards from two groups in recognition of her work.
Speas, who has served as vice president of development and external relations as Old Salem since 2006, was named "Fundraiser of the Year" by the Fundraising Success, a national trade publication.
The magazine noted Speas' role in the museum's 310 percent jump in gift revenue during 2007-08 and growth of 104 percent growth in its donor base.
She also was named one of the "40 Leaders Under 40" by the Business Journal of the Triad, which commended her broad leadership experience, both inside and outside the fundraising arena.
In her role with the museum, Speas leads a nine-member fundraising staff that is responsible for generating a third of the organization's annual operating revenue.
Before joining Old Salem, she was CEO of the Mebane Charitable Foundation and served as director of development and alumni relations at Oak Ridge Military Academy.
