Elaine Webster

Elaine Webster is a senior advancement professional with more than 20 years of experience leading fundraising strategy, building high-performing teams, and driving philanthropic growth across the Smithsonian Institution. She currently serves as Director of Advancement, where she oversees a comprehensive fundraising program supporting scientific research, education, and public engagement.

Elaine has led advancement offices at both the National Museum of the American Indian and the Smithsonian American Art Museum, where she built long-term fundraising capacity and tripled charitable support. She was instrumental in securing full funding for the National Native American Veterans Memorial from tribal nations, foundations, corporations, and individual donors—an effort that culminated in the memorial’s dedication on the National Mall in 2022.

Since joining SAO, Elaine has grown the fundraising team from one to seven staff and four specialized contractors, implemented board development and governance strategies, and helped increase philanthropic revenue from $1.4 million in 2023 to a projected $14 million in 2025. She has introduced structured donor pipelines and grant administration processes, developed strategic partnerships with corporate sponsors, and actively mentors scientists in fundraising strategy and donor engagement.

Elaine is widely respected across the Smithsonian for her expertise in advancement planning, board and donor relations, and cross-institutional collaboration. 
 

BS History, Iowa State University, MA History with emphasis in Museum Studies Eastern Illinois University