Florida Department of State
Agenda Files
Bio
Lori has been a grants consultant in Central Florida for nearly a decade, partnering with arts and culture organizations of all disciplines and sizes. After beginning her career in marketing and public relations, she transitioned to the nonprofit sector in 2015, where she now combines compelling, fact-based storytelling with data-driven research to connect organizations with funding opportunities. She has extensive experience preparing and submitting competitive grant applications through private foundations, corporations, and all levels of government agencies for clients across the country. Lori earned her BA from the University of Central Florida and Master of Professional Writing (MPW) from Chatham University. Lori lives in Orlando with her husband and two young sons, where they enjoy the many amazing local arts opportunities.
Throughout her career spanning almost two decades, Ashley Samuels, CFRE has overseen various aspects of fundraising for small and mid-size arts organizations and written grant proposals of all sizes, securing $1,000 up to $10 million. In January 2024, Ashley launched her own consulting business (AHS Nonprofit Consulting LLC) where she works with clients to develop sustainable fundraising strategies and plans, craft compelling grant proposals, establish mutually beneficial partnerships and sponsorships, and create impactful mission-focused fundraising events using strategies centered on stewardship and gratitude. Ashley has a dual B.A. in English Literature and Art History and a M.A. in Arts Administration from Florida State University. She leads an affinity group for fundraising consultants for her local Association of Fundraising Professionals chapter, is an active advocate and participant in her local arts community, and enjoys reading in her spare time. Ashley lives in Winter Springs, FL with two giant dogs, a small special needs cat, and her husband, Dan.