Meet Andrew Cudzilo, Donor Relations Manager
Andrew Cudzilo serves as Starlight’s Donor Relations Manager, focusing on donor engagement and stewardship. Since joining the team in March, Andrew has taken on a robust portfolio of annual and campaign donors, overseeing donor benefits and communications. He plays a key role in promoting and managing our Donor Membership Program and supporting donor experiences at performances and special events. Andrew also assists with fundraising initiatives, manages legacy and endowment giving efforts, and high-impact philanthropic events such as Starry Night at Starlight!
What excites you the most about being on the team at Starlight?
Being a part of a newer team as a whole and being in a position where this team can innovate, create and explore new ways to engage our donors and make lasting impacts for Starlight is really exciting. We are so fortunate to have put together such a talented and incredibly smart group. I look forward to what the future brings!
What do you wish donors knew about the impact of their support?
Every little bit matters. The round up at concessions to the large donation towards our Capital campaign, everything has impact on not just Starlight, but the community we serve. Programs that contributions fund create a place for kids to thrive, imagine and dream. It creates a community of acceptance and opens a world that these kids may not have known could exist for them.
Do you have a favorite Starlight memory?
Currently, Starry Night. For our team, it was a lot of work to get it together and ready. To see the guests excited and having a great time created a core memory for me.
Tell us about your favorite musical experience.
I have a few but the one that I think was the most exciting was being in the audience for the taping of Newsies at the Pantages Theatre in LA. The original cast came back for one night only and put on a surprise show for the taping. It was amazing.
In your experience, why is having access to the arts so important?
Access to the arts is more than meets the eye. For those who haven’t been involved, they see costumes and playing pretend. For me, I see project and time management, creative and critical thinking, social bonding, and generally happier people. The arts create a foundation for a better society.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love watching sports (KC teams of course) with friends and family, playing pickleball, baking, music and movies.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I don’t like seafood. Yes, that includes shrimp, crab, lobster, etc.
Have more questions for Andrew? You can contact him directly at andrew.cudzilo@kcstarlight.com