Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is pleased to announce the appointment of Cheryl Mendelson as Chief Advancement Officer. Mendelson, a seasoned nonprofit executive, comes to Vizcaya at a pivotal time with more than two decades of leadership experience in philanthropy, fundraising campaigns, marketing, and cultural partnerships across Chicago and Florida.

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Cheryl Mendelson has been appointed Chief Advancement Officer at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, bringing more than two decades of leadership in philanthropy, fundraising, and cultural partnership

In her new role, Mendelson will lead Vizcaya’s advancement strategy, overseeing fundraising, donor engagement, and philanthropic initiatives as the museum prepares for the next chapter of its growth and preservation with revitalization and upcoming launch of Vizcaya Village, the estate’s original farm and village.

“Cheryl brings an extraordinary record of success in advancing mission-driven organizations through transformative fundraising and strategic partnerships,” said Joel Hoffman, Executive Director and CEO of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. “Her depth of experience will be invaluable as Vizcaya strengthens its philanthropic vision and prepares for an ambitious next chapter.”

As Chief Advancement Officer at Vizcaya, Mendelson will oversee fundraising, donor relations, and campaign planning, while strengthening community and institutional partnerships. Reporting to Executive Director Joel Hoffman, she will play a central role in shaping Vizcaya’s future and ensuring philanthropic resources support its long-term preservation and impact.

“It is an honor to join Vizcaya at such a meaningful moment,” said Mendelson. “This National Historic Landmark is a cultural treasure for Miami and beyond. I look forward to working with the board, staff, and community to advance its mission and secure its future.”

Mendelson previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation, where she led a $300 million public-private partnership with the City of Sarasota and raised more than $33 million in private philanthropy. Earlier, as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Harris Theater in Chicago’s Millennium Park, she helped build its national reputation, launched innovative programs including MIX at SIX and Beyond the Aria, and expanded community access to the arts.

She also held senior leadership roles at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, where she led campaigns totaling more than $150 million and secured a $100 million Department of Defense research collaboration, and at the Erikson Institute, where she completed a $58 million campaign for mental health services, endowment growth, and curriculum innovation. Most recently, through Mendelson Nonprofit Consulting, she advised cultural and educational organizations in Miami, Palm Beach, and Chicago.

Learn more online at Vizcaya.org/CAO.

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A seasoned nonprofit executive with 20+ years of success in philanthropy and cultural partnerships