We are excited to announce Tami Lau Vinson as Watershed’s and Friends School’s new Director of Development! In this vital role, Tami will lead fundraising efforts for both Friends School and Watershed as we continue on our path toward unification.
Tami brings more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, community engagement, and nonprofit leadership. Her passion for mission-driven work, combined with a remarkable track record of success in both independent schools and nonprofit organizations, makes her an incredible asset to our community.
For the past five years, Tami has served as Director of Development and Community Engagement at Mackintosh Academy in Littleton. Her previous roles span a range of respected organizations, including Dini Spheris, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, Bishop Machebeuf High School, and the National Sports Center for the Disabled. At Dini Spheris, a national development consulting firm, she supported advancement efforts at many independent schools across Colorado, including Graland Country Day School, Fountain Valley School, Boulder Country Day School, Havern School, and Vail Mountain School.
Tami holds the Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) credential and has led multi-million-dollar capital and annual campaigns, coached school leaders and boards, and built inclusive, values-driven advancement programs. She holds a B.S. in Business Administration in Management Information Systems from Auburn University and an M.A. in Management in Nonprofit Organizations from the University of Georgia.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Tami is a dedicated volunteer leader, currently chairing the Steering Committee for the Institute for Leaders in Development at the University of Denver and contributing her time and expertise to the Association of Fundraising Professionals and National Philanthropy Day.
Tami shares,“I’m truly thrilled to join Watershed and Friends at such a pivotal moment. Bringing together two progressive schools with shared values is a rare and inspiring opportunity to be part of something bold and transformative. I’m eager to build on the strong development programs established at both schools and help nurture a culture of giving that will support this exciting next chapter.”
We are so pleased to welcome Tami to our communities. Her deep expertise, enthusiasm for progressive education, and clear dedication to building lasting relationships will be key as we move forward together.
Please join us in giving Tami a warm welcome!
