Former city of Columbus grant writer/administrator Susan Wilder has been hired as director of development and philanthropic strategy for The Dispatch.
Her first day will be July 20.
In this newly created role, Wilder will be responsible for designing, building and executing the fundraising infrastructure for The Dispatch, as the newspaper seeks to add more philanthropic dollars to its revenue stream to support high-impact reporting projects.
“I am looking forward to a new chapter in my career working with a company who values integrity and respect,” Wilder said. “I have always had a passion for improving communities and the quality of life for the people who live there. In this new position, I will be able to raise funding for more in-depth reporting on local issues, protect civic engagement, and amplify underrepresented voices who deserve to be heard.”
Wilder worked the last two years for the city, handling millions of dollars in grants for various projects. She was instrumental in securing funds for the Dr. John “Jack” Kaye Cretaceous Fossil Park on Luxapalila Creek and the Alva Temple Museum at Columbus-Lowndes County Airport, among many other projects.
She’s previously served stints as project coordinator or executive director of development organizations in Mississippi, Kentucky and Tennessee.
Peter Imes, publisher for The Dispatch, said while The Dispatch’s circulation and advertising revenue remain strong, Wilder’s position is meant to meet the innovative demands of local journalism. Big picture, he said, he hopes the initiative will become an “incubator of ideas” that can help other small newsrooms.
“I believe there is a deep desire among foundations and individual donors to support quality journalism – particularly when it pushes for open government, accountability and raising the voices of underserved communities,” Imes said. “Our newspaper’s recent investigative reporting awards illustrate our commitment to those values. We plan to continue and deepen that coverage, which requires dedicated funding.
“Everyone at The Dispatch is excited about this new effort, and particularly that Susan will be leading it,” he added. “She has a proven track record of fundraising for innovative ideas, and she brings a unique enthusiasm to projects.”
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 31 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 31 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
