Talent Citizen congratulates Shelly Cornell on her appointment as Senior Philanthropy Advisor at Boston Lyric Opera (BLO), effective October 6, 2025. In partnership with Chief Philanthropy Advisor Ishan Johnson, Shelly will grow and engage the community of patrons passionate about philanthropically supporting compelling operatic experiences, ensuring a consistent and thoughtful approach to the cultivation of leading prospects and donors for BLO.
With nearly twenty years of experience in a variety of fundraising positions within arts and culture and other nonprofit organizations, Shelly brings expertise in donor cultivation, volunteer engagement, and fundraising strategy. Since 2013, she has served as a major gift fundraiser for WNET New York Public Media, most recently as Senior Development Officer, Major & Principal Giving. Shelly managed a diverse portfolio of individual donors, some of whom she has identified for trustee leadership, and secured gifts ranging in size from five- to seven-figures. Previously, Shelly held fundraising roles of increasing responsibility at American Ballet Theatre and The League of American Orchestras, as well as a leadership role at the Cornell Family Foundation, where she played a pivotal part in funding decisions for arts and social justice organizations in the New York Tri-State area.
With a lifelong passion for history, storytelling, and artistic expression, Shelly finds her new role at the intersection of her passions for classical music and the performing arts. Shelly’s community-driven volunteerism extends to civic projects in support of educational and performing arts organizations. She has been an active executive volunteer for the Mid-Manhattan Performing Arts Foundation, a volunteer fundraiser and board leader for local schools, and a past board chair of Uptown Stories, a writing workshop for youth ages 8–18. Additionally, Shelly serves as a volunteer for her alma mater, Smith College, advising students and young alums who wish to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector.
Born and raised in New England, Shelly is looking forward to returning to the region. Shelly graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and History and a minor in Music from Smith College.
Talent Citizen President Tracy Welsh led this search with Managing Director Rachel K. Partin.