New Director Appointed by the Board of Directors

A veteran fundraiser and arts professional from Santa Clara has been selected by the Board of Directors to lead the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles. Christine Jeffers has been appointed as the new executive director effective October 17, after a nationwide search. She is a certified fundraising professional and specialist in nonprofit and fundraising management, with more than sixteen years of experience in individual and corporate giving in the arts and for museums.

Most recently, Jeffers was with KQED as their Director of South Bay Individual Gifts. Jeffers has also served as Executive Director of the Cupertino Historical Society and Museum, Annual Fund Director at San Jose Repertory Theatre, Membership Director at San Jose Museum of Art, and Membership Manager at Strybing Arboretum Society. She is also a former Vice President with Brakeley Briscoe Inc., where she managed numerous capital campaigns ranging from $3 million to $25 million dollars.

"As the Museum moves into the next phase of our capital campaign, we feel that Christine is the right person to support us in this effort. I look forward to working closely with her in this task as well as expanding educational opportunities and continuing the outstanding exhibit and collection programs," said Marie Strait, Board President.

Jeffers has worked as an exhibit preparator and designer at Treasure Island Museum and the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. She holds a BFA in painting and drawing from San Jose State University and an MA in Museum Studies from San Francisco State University, and is a graduate of Leadership Cupertino and Community Leadership San Jose. Jeffers has served on the board of the Cartoon Art Museum in San Francisco, Alameda Historical Society, Happy Hollow Foundation and Association of Fundraising Professionals Silicon Valley Chapter where she was a former Board President. She is a former chair of National Philanthropy Day in San Jose.

"I am pleased to step into this exciting role as the Museum heads towards its 35th Anniversary," said Jeffers. "The Museum has a wonderful collection, fantastic educational programs, a professional staff and engaged board of directors. I look forward to helping them reach their goals and setting new ones. I also look forward to sharing the Museum with the larger community of Silicon Valley and ensuring it receives the recognition it deserves."