State Theatre Center for the Arts Welcomes Selena Lavonier as New Vice President of Development
Easton, PA – The State Theatre Center for the Arts is proud to announce the appointment of Selena Lavonier as its new Vice President of Development, bringing fresh vision, deep community ties, and a remarkable track record of transformational fundraising to one of the Lehigh Valley’s most treasured cultural institutions.
Selena has a lifetime commitment to the arts and has nearly 20 years of nonprofit experience. Selena’s career took shape at the Metropolitan Museum of Art where she was part of a team that created all high caliber events within the world-renowned institution. Selena then joined MasterVoices, where she had the opportunity to work with the organization’s Board of Trustees, donors, grantors and sponsors to bring performances to Carnegie Hall.
Most recently, Selena worked with the ArtsQuest Foundation and ArtsQuest to positively impact our community through arts, education and cultural events. With the Foundation, Selena worked with its Board of Trustees to create the organization’s strategic plan, built a legacy donor society for principal gifts, increased planned giving efforts and raised millions of dollars for its endowments. With ArtsQuest, Selena led a team responsible for leadership giving, membership, annual appeals, grant administration and data analytics. Selena also had the opportunity to work with many community members committed to the arts and secured transformational leadership gifts for the organization’s recent capital campaign.
“We are thrilled to welcome Selena Lavonier to the State Theatre,” said Shelley Brown, President & CEO. “Her extraordinary achievements, coupled with her passion for our community, make her the perfect person to guide us into our 99th season and beyond. Selena’s energy and vision will ensure the arts not only survive—but thrive—right here in Easton.”
In her new role, Selena will lead all of the Theatre’s development initiatives, including fundraising, donor engagement, and community partnerships. Her experience launching a Legacy Donor Society and building smart, data-driven giving pipelines positions her to take the theatre’s beloved programs—such as the FREDDY® Awards and performances by artists like Mandy Patinkin—to new heights.
Selena earned her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre and Music, Cum Laude, from Muhlenberg College, in Allentown, and her Master of Music (MM) in Vocal Performance and Opera, Magna Cum Laude, from Boston Conservatory in Boston. She also earned her Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy Certification from the American College of Financial Services in King of Prussia.
“I’ve always believed in the power of the arts to bring people together,” said Selena. “The State Theatre is rich in cultural and historical significance – and through its mission provides impactful experiences for our community. I’m honored to join this legacy and help shape its future.”
About State Theatre Center for the Arts
Now entering its 99th season, the State Theatre Center for the Arts in Easton, PA, is a nonprofit historic venue committed to enriching the Lehigh Valley through world-class performances, community engagement, and the nationally recognized FREDDY® Awards. Finally, we will consistently seek new, innovative ways to serve the diverse cultural interests of the community.