David Tamaki ('16) has spent nearly 20 years in the performing arts sector. He began as a professional ballet dancer, then moved on to fundraising and arts management. Currently, he works as the Director of Advancement at the New Jersey Ballet, focusing on fundraising, board engagement, grant writing, and more. He is also a student in the Fundraising Management graduate program at Columbia University.
We spoke with David about his professional experience, his graduate program, and his aspirations.
Why did you consider the Fundraising Management graduate program?
Before I enrolled in the Fundraising Management program at Columbia University, I was a professional ballet dancer at New Jersey Ballet. In 2008, I suffered a career-ending knee injury, which has led to more than ten surgeries. In an instant, I needed to transform myself.
As I completed my undergraduate work at Saint Mary’s College of California in the LEAP program in 2014, I was determined to continue my education. Having a deep passion for the arts and a desire to one day lead a not-for-profit organization, I searched for a program that offered the tools that a future not-for-profit leader must possess. The School of Professional Studies’s graduate program not only offers a curriculum that encompasses all the areas a future leader needs, it also maintains a course schedule that accommodates people who work full-time.
You were working while you were an M.S. candidate. How did you apply the lessons from your program to your role?
I worked full-time as an administrative assistant at New Jersey Ballet while I was an M.S. candidate. Whenever possible, I would return to work and suggest and apply new ideas with positive results. While I was taking the grants course, I was in the process of raising funds for a dance program I run for people with Parkinson’s disease. During the class, I learned important lessons on how to research and approach new foundations. By the end of the course, I secured a new funder using the strategies outlined in the class.
How has the program advanced your career?
The program has not only improved my confidence, but it has also provided me the tools necessary to succeed. Recently, the Ballet’s Board of Directors appointed me Director of Advancement. I am now working closely with leadership and board members to help drive the organization forward and grow its funding base.
Any advice for people who are considering this graduate program?
This program has provided me the tools necessary to pursue my dreams of making a difference. Growth can only be realized when an investment is made. I chose to invest in myself so I can grow to my fullest potential. Anyone who wants to grow both professionally and personally should consider investing in their education at Columbia University.
Learn more about the Fundraising Management graduate program.
