Tamara Turoff Keough Appointed as Chief Development Officer at Folger Shakespeare Library

Tamara Turoff Keough Takes the Reins as Chief Development Officer at Folger Shakespeare Library

The Folger Shakespeare Library, renowned for its extensive collection and cultural offerings, has recently announced the appointment of Tamara Turoff Keough as its new Chief Development Officer (CDO). This significant move is part of an ongoing effort to bolster fundraising capabilities to support the library's evolving programming and initiatives. Keough's role will be pivotal as the Folger embarks on a journey towards its centenary celebration in 2032, following substantial renovations that expanded the facility by 12,000 square feet, completed in June 2024.

In her new role, Keough will collaborate closely with Director Dr. Farah Karim-Cooper to formulate a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the Folger's mission of making Shakespeare's works and the surrounding humanities accessible to all. The library aims to secure between $4 to $5 million annually in donations, essential for various educational, artistic, and community initiatives.

Dr. Karim-Cooper expressed her enthusiasm about Keough's appointment, highlighting her remarkable track record of cultivating significant contributions and fostering long-lasting relationships with both individuals and organizations. With over three decades of experience in the field of fundraising, Keough has previously served as the Director of Development at Ford's Theatre Society, where she effectively led a capital campaign raising an impressive $52 million to enhance the theatre's campus and programmatic offerings.

Before her tenure at Ford's Theatre, Keough held prestigious development leadership positions at UsAgainstAlzheimer's, RAND Corporation, and the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television. Her rich background in development will enable her to implement actionable fundraising plans tailored to drive the library towards its goals for the future.

In her own words, Keough expressed her excitement about joining the Folger Shakespeare Library, stating, "As someone who has long loved libraries and deeply respects the researcher's journey, I am beyond excited to join the Folger Shakespeare Library. I look forward to working with Farah, the Folger team, and our community of supporters to help advance the mission of this amazing, incomparable cultural organization into its second century."

The Folger Shakespeare Library, located in Washington, DC, is home to the largest collection of Shakespeare-related materials and serves as a dynamic cultural hub for dialogue, exploration, and education. From interactive exhibitions to immersive performances, the Folger invites visitors to engage with literature and the arts in diverse and meaningful ways. As it approaches its 100-year milestone, the leadership team, with Keough at the helm of development, aims to extend the library's impact both locally and globally.

The newly appointed CDO commenced her duties on October 27, 2025, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the library as it prepares for what lies ahead in its second century.

For more information on the Folger Shakespeare Library and its upcoming programs, visit www.folger.edu.