Serena Amerson, Executive Director of Major Gifts and Annual Giving at EVMS, has been named the 2018 Outstanding Fundraising Professional by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Hampton Roads Chapter. She will receive the award at AFP-HR’s National Philanthropy Day celebration set for Wednesday, Nov. 28, at the the Hilton Norfolk The Main. 

The award honors an individual who has held significant fundraising positions, including having raised substantial funds, exemplified leadership in ethical and effective practices in development/fundraising, demonstrated success in new programs and initiatives that improve return on fundraising investment, and displayed continued commitment as a volunteer leader to support professional development of others and financial support of nonprofit organizations.

Ms. Amerson was selected for her dedication to the industry and her extensive experience.  Since joining EVMS in 2010, she has raised more than $21.5 million to support the establishment of an institute, several academic honors, a fellowship, scholarships, cancer research funds and many other gifts to benefit EVMS. Prior to her current role, she served as Chief Development Officer at ForKids and Associate Director of Development at the Tidewater Jewish Foundation.

Ms. Amerson also serves as a mentor to others in the industry, has held several leadership positions in the AFP-HR organization including past president, and is a current AFP-HR board member serving as the Government Relations Chair. She also is Chair of the AFP International Awards Committee and member of the International Development Committee.