Berkeley Repertory Theatre Appointed Autumn Woish
The veteran fundraiser will lead development strategy and donor relations for the theatre company.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Arts Theater — General
Berkeley Repertory Theatre has named Autumn Woish as its new Director of Development. Woish brings 25 years of fundraising experience to the organization.
Why it matters
The appointment positions the theatre to strengthen its financial foundation and support its long-term artistic goals through new leadership. Woish will oversee fundraising strategy, major gifts, and grants in collaboration with the Board of Trustees.
Woish brings 25 years of fundraising experience to the role. She previously served as the Executive Director of Membership Fundraising and Donor Relations at KQED.
The players
Autumn Woish
She is an experienced development professional who previously held leadership roles at Planned Parenthood Northern California and KQED.
Berkeley Repertory Theatre
This is a prominent nonprofit theatre company based in the San Francisco Bay Area known for its artistic productions.
The details
In this new capacity, Woish will spearhead fundraising initiatives, including institutional giving and major gift programs. She will work closely with theatre leadership to align development efforts with the company's creative vision.
Timeline
The appointment was officially announced on October 5, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This move reflects a broader trend of cultural institutions recruiting high-level development experts to navigate an increasingly competitive philanthropic landscape. It signals an effort to secure sustainable growth within the San Francisco Bay Area arts ecosystem.
The appointment impacts the theatre's ability to maintain its production schedule and artistic programs. Supporters and donors can expect changes in how the organization manages institutional and major gift campaigns.
The takeaway
Effective nonprofit leadership often relies on cross-sector experience gained from diverse roles in media and health organizations. Donors should look for future announcements regarding new artistic initiatives supported by these updated development strategies.
Further reading
For more news regarding local productions and institutional leadership, visit the Arts Theater — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
