The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) has appointed Emily Duncan as its new director of development.

Duncan brings seven years of experience in event management, museum operations, and donor cultivation to her new role.

At SBMM, Duncan will focus on cultivating donor relationships, enhancing membership programs, and spearheading the museum’s fundraising efforts.

Her background in CRM systems and data analysis will play a key role in managing the museum’s growing donor base and supporting its mission to preserve and promote Santa Barbara’s maritime history, SBMM said.

“We are excited to build on the museum’s successful legacy of community engagement and preservation,” Duncan said. “I look forward to working with our donors, members, and supporters to strengthen our outreach, diversify our funding, and continue promoting Santa Barbara’s unique maritime history.”

Duncan holds a Master of Arts in leadership studies from the University of San Diego and a Bachelor of Science in experience industry management from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Before joining SBMM, in April Duncan opened the Chrisman California Islands Center, an educational research center. She was responsible for creating a membership program, diversifying revenue streams, and managing donor relationships while overseeing day-to-day operations and volunteer management.

As event sales and service coordinator and manager at the USS Midway Museum, Duncan was instrumental in generating $1 million annually for the museum’s event department.

Serving as special events coordinator at the San Diego Natural History Museum, Duncan developed marketing strategies that increased the museum’s social media reach.

“We are thrilled to have Emily join our team,” said Greg Gorga, SBMM’s executive director. “Her extensive experience and passion for nonprofit work will undoubtedly help us further our goals and expand our outreach.”

For more information about Duncan’s appointment or to inquire about supporting the SBMM, call 805-456-8744.