Meet the Team

Andria Piekarz joined Mote Marine Laboratory as Director of Development on Feb. 1, 2019.  Ms. Piekarz applies her philanthropic leadership experience to Mote’s mission of marine science, conservation and public education.

Piekarz, most recently the Director of Philanthropy for the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, is responsible for leading major growth in fundraising efforts for Mote — an independent, nonprofit research institution — across its diverse array of more than 20 marine science programs, along with its education and outreach programs that translate scientific discoveries to benefit marine ecosystems and the public. Philanthropic giving is essential to Mote’s success, accounting for 40 percent of the funding for Mote’s Research Division and complementing the array of competitive government grants and agreements secured by Mote scientists.

Prior to joining Mote, Piekarz served as Director of Philanthropy for the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast since 2014, fueling their mission to save land to protect waterways and watersheds. In addition to having more than 10 years of nonprofit fundraising experience in the region, Piekarz is an experienced marketing and sales executive with a strong track record of growing revenues for global entrepreneurial organizations. She is a member of the Human Services Advisory Council for Sarasota County, serves on the board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Chapter of Southwest Florida and has strong interests in multiple humanitarian efforts including mentoring children who face adversity.