“I love leading my team of fundraisers by creating a culture of kindness with a strong set of goals. We are driven by the idea that raising money for the zoo is both fun and serious work.”
Under Leta Obertacz's leadership, the Cleveland Zoological Society's advancement team has raised more than $11 million for capital projects throughout the past few years. A former performer with the elite Nets dance team and transplant from New York, she embraced Cleveland as her new "wonderfully philanthropic" hometown where she could make a big impact and get involved in the community quickly. She currently lends her talents to two nonprofits. "I love STEM education and our motto of "fail up," says the founding president of Motogo, which teaches kids confidence and problem solving through DIY motorcycle maintenance. She's also the co-vice president of EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute, which offers the formerly incarcerated opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industries. "It is important for me to serve in my community and to show my children that I believe in a life of service. It all begins with passion and building relationships."
