Executive Director's Report


Finances
  • FY18: With input from the finance committee, singers, and staff, we have arrived at a proposed budget, which I look forward to discussing with you.
  • Cash flow: Our cash situation will be tight in mid/late September, but should rebound by mid October with a Sweet Honey box office settlement from Orchestra Hall, payment from our Taiwan presenter, and the lead-up of single-ticket sales for the fall series. As of 7.21.17:
    • July 16-31:     $21,444         
    • Aug. 1-15:      $24,962         
    • Aug. 16-31:    $8,119
    • Sept. 1-15:     $5,523
    • Sept. 16-30:   ($3,949)
    • Oct. 1-15:       $7,673
    • Oct. 16-31:     $38,361
 
Development
  • Grants:
    • Minnesota State Arts Board: This week, we received notice our Operating Support grant will be $52,080 – a drop of more than $26,000 from the previous year. Based on feedback from our MSAB program officer, this is tied to a large reduction in overall funds available, among other factors.
    • MSAB Touring: With help from Patricia, we submitted a separate touring proposal for $33,000 to support Minnesota engagements.
    • National Endowment for the Arts: Our proposal will be submitted this week.
    • Target Foundation: We received a grant of $20,000 earlier this month – support level with last year. Brock and I have a meeting scheduled with our foundation program officer in early August.
    • Marbrook Foundation: We submitted an LOI for funding of “For the Beauty of the Earth,” the Spring 2018 program. This would be a new potential source of funding.
  • Individual fundraising: We are closing out FY17 particularly well in this area – thank you for your support! Joey will provide additional info in his report.  
 
Strategic Planning
  • Planning to plan: Consultant John Hovanec and I have met twice to reflect on great input from the board at the last meeting and from the singers at a company meeting. He is providing a framework to help map the process.
 
HR and Administration
  • Search for a new engagement associate: We have narrowed the pool to two finalists, with an offer to be made in the coming week.