By Eric Dundon
Julie Gibbs’ career has come full circle. The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s new Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer began her career in the SLSO’s marketing and development departments in the 1980s and ‘90s.
SLSO President and CEO Marie-Hélène Bernard announced Gibbs’ appointment in January 2022.
“Julie has a passion for the SLSO that spans more than 30 years, having previously worked as a member of our team,” Bernard said. “Julie’s approach aligns with the SLSO’s commitment to nurture strong relationships in support of the philanthropic spirit of our community. I am delighted to welcome her back to the SLSO family.”
In the years since her first tenure with the SLSO, Gibbs has served in a number of philanthropy and stewardship roles.
Most recently, she served as the Vice President of Development at the Jewish Federation of St. Louis. In that role, Gibbs led the development team, exceeding goals in annual fundraising and planned giving. In her eight years there, she led growth within Women’s Philanthropy and helped create their now signature women’s campaign and community event, L’Chaim. She previously held the positions of Director of Major Gifts and Affinity Groups and Director of Women’s Philanthropy.
Gibbs is a St. Louis native and graduate of Parkway Central High School and the University of Missouri School of Journalism.
“Julie has a wonderful track record of making community connections. Her strong ties to the SLSO and the St. Louis community, and her belief in the SLSO’s mission, make her an ideal fit to lead our team,” said Nancy Galvin, Chair of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Philanthropy Committee.
Gibbs said she looks forward to build on the success of the SLSO’s storied history.
“The orchestra and its stunning home at Powell Hall bring so much joy to so many—I look forward to helping our community connect even more to the orchestra and music they love,” she said.
The SLSO recently reported $7.758 million in philanthropic giving in FY21, which followed two years of record giving by the St. Louis community, with $8.06 million raised for the Annual Fund in FY20, up from a record $8.01 million in FY19.
Eric Dundon is the SLSO’s Public Relations Manager.