Lenfest Institute names Kirsten Halker-Kratz as new Head of Development and Donor Relations

May 19, 2025

Kirsten Halker-Kratz is joining The Lenfest Institute for Journalism as Head of Development and Donor Relations. She most recently served as assistant dean of development and alumni relations at Temple University’s College of Education and Human Development. 

In her new role, Halker-Kratz will focus on growing a comprehensive fundraising program to support The Lenfest Institute’s mission of building solutions for the next era of local news. Her work will include growing philanthropic partnerships, building strong relationships with our donor community, and soliciting and stewarding philanthropic gifts of all sizes. 

Her first day is Tuesday, May 20.  

During her time at Temple University, Halker-Kratz stewarded a portfolio that prioritized major gift donors to the College of Education and Human Development. Over her two-and-a-half-year tenure, she grew and managed the alumni board and Board of Visitors while serving on the scholarship reception committee, strategic action plan committee, and the Constance Clayton Urban Education Award committee.  

“I’m thrilled to join The Lenfest Institute and amplify the success of such a dedicated team,” Halker-Kratz said. “I am committed to ensuring that our donors feel appreciated, informed, and engaged.” 

Halker-Kratz began her nonprofit career in the arts and culture sector at Settlement Music School, where she held various roles in administration and development during her twelve-year tenure, ultimately leading the school’s individual giving program and completing a $25 million anniversary campaign.  

She served as executive director of the Chester Children’s Chorus before returning to Philadelphia to join the fundraising team at Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence. Halker-Kratz created the agency’s first planned giving program, restored the alumni association, and served as liaison to all five regional boards, each of which required unique fundraising and recruitment strategies.  

A classically trained pianist and organist, and still an active performer and accompanist, Halker-Kratz will be celebrating 25 years as the director of music ministries at Trinity Lutheran Church, Havertown, in August. 

“We’re pleased to welcome Kirsten to The Lenfest Institute,” said Executive Director & CEO Jim Friedlich. “Kirsten has a remarkable record of donor engagement and support, and I know the Institute’s supporter community will appreciate getting to know her. Our supporters are essential to the Institute’s work of reinventing local news, and we’re looking forward to continuing to deepen those relationships under Kirsten’s leadership.”