Meet the Development Staff
Kate Cleveland Director of Development
Kate is from Killingly, Connecticut, and considers herself a "recovering Yankee." She graduated with a BA in English from the University of Connecticut. Her 15 years of development experience actually began at the ASO, where she worked from 1999 to 2003. Kate rejoined the ASO staff in 2007. While she enjoyed an illustrious career as first chair flute in her middle school band, her talents led her along a different path. She has two children, Ethan and Emma, and she enjoys mountain biking and photography. Kate believes that having a world-class orchestra elevates a community and makes it a better place to live. "In this day and age, the chance to sit in a beautiful hall, close your eyes and just listen can be like taking a mini-vacation from our hectic lives. It is truly like food for your soul."
Ask Kate about: Major gifts, planned giving and getting involved with the ASO
Email Kate by clicking here or call 205.314.6902
Zachary Davis Institutional Giving Manager
Zach is from Jackson, Mississippi and graduated from Millsaps College with a BA in Public Management. Before joining the ASO, much of his work and research experience was in the field of economic development with a special interest in the "creative economy." Despite being awarded the "best violin performance" in the 3rd grade, he has lost all instrumental skill and is now content listening to the ASO. Zach is an avid runner, golfer, tennis player and singer but always finds time for the New York Times. "The ASO is an innovative and dynamic organization. I am proud to be a part of an association that provides a creative foundation for economic growth and sustainability in Birmingham and the state of Alabama."
Ask Zach about: Corporate gifts and sponsorships
Email Zach by clicking here or call 205.314.6955
Emily Moore Annual Fund Manager
Emily is from Jackson, Mississippi and graduated from the University of Mississippi with a BA in History. She comes to the ASO from Atlanta where she worked with the High Museum of Art and Imagine It! The Children's Museum of Atlanta. Although Emily grew up taking piano lessons, she says her talents are better served making desserts. She also enjoys travel, museums, the outdoors, and of course music. "I grew up surrounded by music, and I know firsthand the positive impact both intellectually and emotionally, that it has on our lives. I'm very excited to come on board with the ASO and be a part of sharing music with our community here in Birmingham."
Ask Emily about: Benefactors and Maestro's Societies, Sound Investment, Doctors for the ASO, Attorneys for the ASO, Carnegie Countdown
Email Emily by clicking here or call 205.314.6912
Amanda Dickerson Patron Services Manager
Amanda hails from Dothan, Alabama, but has lived in Birmingham for most of her life. She attended Auburn University where she received her BA in Communications. While she attempted to play the clarinet in middle school, she didn't make the cut for band and turned to choral groups instead. More than anything, Amanda loves to cook and bake! She loves the ASO because it has provided her with so much more than a job. "The amazing and talented people I have met, the musicians and staff, the donors and subscribers, have become such a wonderful and important part of my life. Having a professional full-time orchestra that belongs to Birmingham and Alabama is a huge source of personal and community pride."
Ask Amanda about: Questions about your contributions, receipts and donor benefits
Email Amanda by clicking here or call 205.314.6977
Ashley Blomeyer Events Manager
Ashley is from Birmingham and earned her degree in Elementary Education and English from the University of Mississippi. She joined the ASO from the Birmingham Museum of Art and always makes our Maestro's Ball an event to remember. Although she doesn't play an instrument now, she took piano lessons until 3rd grade and wishes her parents had made her stick with it! When she's not planning events with the Symphony, Ashley enjoys reading, being with her three boys and exercising. She truly loves the arts and considers working with the ASO a way to support their presence in Alabama.
Ask Ashley about Special Event details
Email Ashley by clicking here or call 205.314.6917
