Boys Town New England Welcomes New Development Director

The newest employee at Boys Town New England is bringing a passion for fundraising and building long-term relationships to her new position.

Debra Sharpe, Boys Town New England Development Director, has more than 25 years of experience with nonprofit management and philanthropy.

As a leader with a heart for nonprofit organizations, she’s excited to bring her knowledge and focus to Portsmouth. “It’s important to stay focused on the mission to deliver tangible results,” said Sharpe. “I hope to achieve those extraordinary results, collaborative partnerships with staff, and building long-term, mutually satisfying relationships with volunteers, donors and other supporters.”

Sharpe’s professional career began at the American Cancer Society as a Field Representative. Since 1984, she has held executive positions at organizations like the American Heart Association, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and the Theatre Arts Foundation of LaJolla.

Before coming to Boys Town New England, Sharpe served as President of the ALS Association Massachusetts Chapter. Outside of the office, she volunteers and is a member of several organizations such as the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Planned Giving Council and the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy.

Sharpe believes that leadership and focus on the mission at hand is vital for success. “I’m looking forward to capturing and sustaining what is currently best at Boys Town New England, and helping create new strategies to enhance and present a vibrant, growing program,” said Sharpe. “I love what I do, and I cannot imagine doing anything else.”