Surgo Foundation Executive Director Sema Sgaier announced today that the organization has hired Steve Pearson, a seasoned development professional with expertise in global development, domestic policy, and political fundraising, to serve as its first Director of Development.
“We’re delighted to welcome Steve to the Surgo team,” said Sgaier. “Steve brings an invaluable combination of development expertise, strategic thinking, and political savvy that will help lead our organization into its exciting next chapter -- which we look forward to sharing more about soon.”
As Surgo’s Director of Development, Pearson will develop and implement strategies to build a sustainable and diverse revenue base for the organization, through investments from private foundations, individuals, corporate partnerships, and government entities.
Previously, he held senior positions cultivating and soliciting major gifts for The ONE Campaign and two major global think tanks—The Brookings Institution and The Wilson Center. He has played leading roles in the creation of advisory groups to steward highly-engaged funders; management of major and multiyear foundation and corporate partnerships; and production of a global event-fundraising program—The Woodrow Wilson Awards.
Pearson’s career in Washington, DC spans 27 years and includes political fundraising at the national level during two presidential elections and inaugurals; work as a government relationships professional for a national trade association; and three years on Capitol Hill, serving as a legislative assistant for two members of Congress.