MEET SUSAN T. DANIS
Susan Danis has served as the General Director and CEO of the Florida Grand Opera (FGO) since October of 2012. During her tenure, FGO has produced internationally acclaimed opera, increased the focus on the presentation of 20th and 21st century work, launched the Made for Miami/Built for Broward Series, developed award winning education and engagement programs, and expanded the size of Studio Artist Program by 30%.
Danis previously served as the Executive Director of Sarasota Opera for twelve years. During her tenure, the company raised $47 million (including legacy gifts) and completed a $20 million renovation of the opera’s 1926 historic theater.
She was awarded the Florida Trust for Historic Preservations Award for Outstanding Achievement in Restoration/Rehabilitation. Prior to Sarasota Opera, she served as the general director of the Lake George Opera Festival (now Opera Saratoga) for eight years.
In January 2012, Ms. Danis was appointed to the South Florida affiliate’s board of directors for Fifth Third Bank. She has served as a panelist for the NEA, and the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs. She also served a six-year term as a member of the Board of Trustees of OPERA America, where she was treasurer for three years. Ms. Danis holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Hartford’s Paris Program and a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University.