VERO BEACH, FL—The Vero Beach Museum of Art (VBMA) is delighted to introduce Melissa A. DePriest, MPA, CFRE, as its new Director of Development.
Mrs. DePriest brings nearly two decades of experience managing and directing philanthropic development activities. She comes to VBMA from the Indian River Land Trust, where since 2021, she has served as Director of Philanthropy and Marketing, building, implementing, and sustaining a diverse and robust fundraising program to support the organization’s annual operating budget and capital needs. Before that, she served as Director of the Fielden Institute for Lifelong Learning at the Indian River State College Foundation and as manager of the College’s annual scholarship program.
“Melissa comes to VBMA with an impressive track record in fundraising, a strong commitment to our community, and a deep love of the arts,” shares VBMA Executive Director Brady Roberts. “Her addition to the senior leadership team will be invaluable as we continue to grow and expand the Museum’s footprint and service to our region.”
This spring, the Vero Beach Museum of Art conducted a national search for the open Director of Development position, yielding nearly 80 applications and nominations. The Museum ultimately selected Melissa DePriest, a Treasure Coast native.
“Vero Beach Museum of Art is the cultural heart of our community, and I am thrilled to join its leadership team,” said Melissa DePriest. “I look forward to working with staff, volunteers, board members, community partners, and others to further VBMA’s mission, build on its strong culture of philanthropy, and ensure its critical role as a place of gathering, inspiration, and learning.”
Mrs. DePriest is a board member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Indian River County, a past board member of Treasure Coast Hospice, and a member of Beachside Toastmasters.
