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Bridget Baratta of Providence has been appointed Vice President of Development at the Rhode Island Foundation. She will lead the Foundation’s fundraising efforts and serve as a member of the Foundation’s leadership team.

"In support of our mission to be a proactive philanthropic and community leader to meet the needs of all the people of Rhode Island, it is a priority to have a proven professional lead our fundraising efforts. After an extensive search, we were impressed by Bridget’s experience, knowledge and commitment to community and are excited to have her join our senior team at the Rhode Island Foundation as we continue in our role as the major funder and civic leader in the community," said Neil D. Steinberg, president and CEO.

Baratta has nearly 20 years of nonprofit development experience. Most recently, she was Director of Development at the Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach, Fla., where she designed and executed a comprehensive development strategy, including leading the initial stages of a $100 million capital campaign and broadening an $8 million annual giving and membership program.

Previously, Baratta served as Executive Director of the Martin County Community Foundation and led development efforts at the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society and Oxbridge Academy.

"I am honored to join a very successful team and an extremely accomplished organization. Further, it is an honor to return to the area and serve the residents of Rhode Island," said Baratta, who was born and raised in Dartmouth, Mass.

Baratta earned a BBA at George Washington University and an MS at the University of Pennsylvania. She joins the Foundation as it comes off several years of record fundraising and grant-making. From 2016 to 2020 alone, the Foundation awarded more than $284 million in grants and raised more than $328 million in gifts.

The Foundation focuses on three strategic priorities: educational success, economic security and healthy lives. In addition, it also supports arts and culture, basic human needs, the environment and housing among other sectors through its responsive grants program.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Through leadership, fundraising and grant-making activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential.