It is with a heavy heart that we announce the resignation of Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, V.P. of Programming, effective Saturday, Dec. 2. Jeannie’s leadership and dedication over the past two years have made a significant impact on the Chautauqua programs and community, for which we are grateful.
Jeannie was instrumental in planning Lakeside’s 150th Anniversary. She collaborated with members of the Sesquicentennial Steering Committee and led the Programming Team to provide Lakesiders with a stellar summer of Chautauqua programs and community celebrations.
To honor Lakeside’s milestone year, new public art spaces were added across the grounds to enhance the beauty of Lakeside and spark conversations. Jeannie helped coordinate the new Mayfly mural with artist Best Sage, which is now displayed in the heart of the business district on Second Street.
She also led the effort to launch Lakeside Online, which has been a monumental success in providing year-round, virtual programming that brings the community together. Jeannie’s work with Lakeside’s online registration software system, ActiveNet, also helped ease the guest experience.
As a Chautauqua that celebrates, encourages and promotes the exploration of arts, Jeannie was thrilled to collaborate with Brenda Baker and the Croswell Opera House in Adrian, Michigan, to expand Lakeside’s performing arts opportunities for youth. She helped coordinate an interactive one-week theater camp that Lakeside plans to continue in 2024.
Jeannie’s unique talents, drive and creativity provided leadership to the Programming Team. She was always a cheerleader for her team while nurturing and guiding the individuals she worked with. Jeannie, along with her husband Mark and daughter Ella, will be greatly missed by Lakeside and the community.
A note from Jeannie Fleming-Gifford:
Thank you for the privilege to learn, grow and work with each of you in support of Lakeside Chautauqua’s mission. I have made the decision to step down from the role of V.P. of Programming.
With the experience of two phenomenal seasons (including the momentous 150th Anniversary), it is now time for me to head home – to the east side of Cleveland – and focus on my family. As many of you know, my daughter Ella (who worked this last season as part of the Hoover Crew) is a junior in high school and the time is growing short for me to enjoy her days at home before her next adventure post-high school.
Over the past two years, I have been inspired, challenged and have grown professionally and personally. Special thanks to Roger Berkowitz, Cindy Grimm, John Porcari and Randy Snow whom I had the pleasure of working with to program the Sesquicentennial season. Finally, thank you to Charles Allen, the Lakeside Team and especially the Programming Team who exemplify extraordinary in their vision, passion and efforts.
Working in support of Lakeside Chautauqua’s mission has been an opportunity for which I will forever be grateful.
Thank you,
Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
