Volunteer Spotlight

Nancy Oakley

As Treasurer of Players by the Sea,  Nancy holds the purse-strings for the theatre, but she is most visible to audiences on opening nights when she and her husband Daffin spread a gourmet feast in our lobby.

There’s usually fresh local seafood, sweet treats and much more, from the Oakley kitchen in Atlantic Beach. Nancy combined her enthusiasm for the arts, good food and fine wine when she single-handedly organized the Art Excellence art auction and wine tasting last fall. It was the most successful fundraiser in our history and in one night provided most of the budget for the Education Program this season. Nancy does much more than write checks and track expenses.

The Treasurer of a small non-profit arts organization must be a financial director, budget planner, investment advisor, insurance guru – and a bit of a wizard when the cash runs low. Nancy’s cheerful, practical nature keeps the Board on an even keel through inevitable ups and downs. Committee members love her efficient use of e-mail to maximize productive decision-making and minimize time-consuming meetings.

Always generous supporters and problem-solvers, the Oakleys can be found wherever help is needed. Daffin was up a ladder paintbrush in hand when our building got its signature green and blue colors, as well as pitching in to paint the lobby at the beginning of the season.

When our set designers were scratching their heads, wondering where to find (free) elegant antiques and hundreds of books for A Delicate Balance, Nancy and Daffin provided yet again. The Education Program is close to their hearts, because it was through the interests of their daughters Leewood and Victoria that they first became involved with theatre. Leewood continues to be very active in our classes and young people’s productions.

If interested in becoming a volunteer, please give us a call at 904. 249-2022.

Sincerely,
Players-By-The-Sea