Heather Marabeti has joined Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee as Vice President of Philanthropy and Development, bringing decades of leadership experience in politics and higher education.
“I’ve done mission-oriented, service-oriented work my whole life, but not directly for my community,” said Marabeti. “And now I get to do that here in Nashville and Middle Tennessee.”
Marabeti’s professional career began in public service, working for former Vice President Al Gore for nearly a decade. She later spent 24 years at Vanderbilt University, where she rose to the position of Associate Vice Chancellor for Development and Alumni Relations, overseeing advancement services, donor relations, strategic initiatives, and other related responsibilities.
“Her background in building positive, trusting relationships in politics and higher education brings us a new perspective and framework for stewardship and buy-in,” said Hal Cato, CFMT CEO. “Heather’s role is critical to our growth and impact as a foundation.”
Marabeti first encountered CFMT’s work after a damaging storm hit her hometown of Hendersonville, Tennessee. CFMT’s vital role in the city’s recovery left a strong impression on Heather and her family.
“My mom was a chamber of commerce volunteer, and she couldn’t stop talking about CFMT’s impact,” Marabeti recalled. “Helping people get their homes and livelihoods back … it was so impressive.”
Cato agrees those qualities are essential to CFMT’s future, stating, “Having a strong VP who can create a culture of trust, curiosity, engagement, and dreaming big is key to our collective ability to make an impact.”
In her new role, Marabeti will oversee the philanthropic services team, work closely with financial advisors and donors, and help chart a strategic course for CFMT’s fundraising goals. When asked what values guide her approach to leadership, she pointed to respect, courtesy, trust, collaboration, and grace.
“You never know what people are going through, so lead with respect and courtesy,” she said. “That’s the kind of culture I hope to foster here.”
Cato shares that sense of optimism.
“The Philanthropic Services team feels like they won the lottery, and we are all so happy to have her as its new leader,” Cato remarked. “I believe it is going to be a transformative working relationship for all parties involved.”
Though only a few days into the job, Marabeti said the warmth and purpose of CFMT are already clear.
“Everyone I’ve met is just committed to doing really good work,” she said. “It feels welcoming from the front desk to the meeting rooms; it’s a place where people treat each other with kindness.”
