Jessica Parker
About Jessica Parker
Jessica Parker serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement at Chabot Space & Science Center, bringing extensive experience in fundraising and marketing from previous roles at various organizations, including the UC Botanical Garden and Exploratorium.
Current Role at Chabot Space & Science Center
Jessica Parker serves as the Director of Institutional Advancement at Chabot Space & Science Center, a position she has held since 2023. In this role, she focuses on enhancing the center's fundraising efforts and building relationships with donors. Her responsibilities include strategic planning and implementing initiatives that align with the center's mission. Located in Oakland, California, the center aims to inspire and educate the public about science and space.
Previous Experience in Development and Fundraising
Prior to her current role, Jessica Parker was the Director of Individual Giving at the Exploratorium from 2021 to 2023. She also held the position of Director of Development at the UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley from 2018 to 2021. Her experience includes managing marketing, communications, and fundraising efforts at BaptistCare NSW & ACT as the HOPESTREET Marketing, Communications and Fundraising Manager from 2013 to 2015. Jessica has a strong focus on donor cultivation and corporate engagement.
Educational Background and Qualifications
Jessica Parker earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Multi-Media Art and Design from the University of Oregon, where she studied from 1999 to 2004. She later obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Marketing from Mills College, completing her studies from 2007 to 2009. Her educational background supports her expertise in strategic planning and development within mission-based organizations.
Skills in Social Enterprise and Fund Management
Jessica Parker possesses practical skills in engineering successful social enterprises, which enhance her capabilities in fundraising and development. She has expertise in capital campaigns and fund management, allowing her to effectively lead initiatives that support organizational goals. Her compassionate approach to leadership is evident in her work with mission-driven organizations, where she emphasizes collaboration and community engagement.
Diverse Professional Experience
Throughout her career, Jessica Parker has held various roles that contribute to her extensive experience in marketing, communications, and development. She worked as a Media Specialist at Vilas Advertising from 2006 to 2008 and served as Marketing, Sales, and Distribution Director at Memoir Journal from 2009 to 2012. Additionally, she was involved in marketing, communications, and development at the Museum of Children's Arts from 2008 to 2009 and at the Richmond Art Center from 2015 to 2016.