GENEVA, NY – The Smith Center for the Arts is thrilled to announce that Wendy A. Marsh has been honored as “Philanthropist of the Year” by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP, Finger Lakes Chapter). This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to philanthropy and community support.
Wendy is an highly engaged philanthropist and Geneva community leader. She has demonstrated her commitment to the Smith’s mission and vision through consistent financial support and hands-on involvement in multiple initiatives.
In 2016-2019, Wendy oversaw a New York state funded major capital project involving a complete renovation and remodeling of the artist dressing rooms and patron restrooms. The arduous tasks of applying, reporting, bidding, vetting contractors, and receiving state permissions were all spearheaded by Wendy herself.
As an individual donor, Wendy has put substantial matches on the table during fundraising drives in order to spur others to give. As a partner in Hancock Estabrook, she has ensured that the firm sponsor our “A Sparkling Night” fundraiser since the event’s inception.
On Friday, November 1st, Smith staff members Susan Monagan and Athena Rajnai proudly accompanied Wendy to the 2024 National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon in Elmira, NY, where her outstanding contributions were celebrated.
The Smith recognizes Wendy Marsh as a key supporter of The Smith Center for the Arts and tireless promoter of the vitality of Geneva as a whole.
The Smith congratulates Wendy on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to continuing its collaboration with her to enrich the cultural landscape of Geneva.
The Smith Center for the Arts, stewards of the historic Smith Opera House, provides diverse arts and educational enrichment opportunities year-round for Finger Lakes residents and visitors. To learn more about events offered by The Smith Center for the Arts visit thesmith.org, or visit or call our box office for phone and in-person sales, 10am-4pm, Tuesday-Friday. The Smith Opera House is at 82 Seneca St. in Geneva, NY. Please email boxoffice@thesmith.org or call (315) 781-5483.
