Dolly Farrell joined CFI as its first Executive Director. Farrell will assumed leadership of the organization in early October, immediately following Hurricane Ian.

After determining that our community and Board would benefit from the addition of a leader who could enhance our outreach and impact on Sanibel and Captiva, the CFI Board of Directors began a search for a qualified executive director to assist with day-to-day as well as long-term operations.

Farrell, a key figure in fundraising for Florida Gulf Coast University for almost nine years, emerged as the best candidate for the position. The organization is delighted to have attracted Dolly who has had outstanding success in the nonprofit world. Farrell is a long-term Fort Myers resident with strong relationships throughout the region. 

Prior to her role at FGCU, Farrell was involved with other nonprofits both locally and in North Carolina. She met all of the criteria that our 13-member board set out at the beginning of the search process.

Farrell earned a Master of Public Administration from Appalachian State University. She followed a path from Habitat for Humanity & PACE to positions at three universities. 

As part of her duties, Farrell will oversee the growth and distribution of Donor Advised Funds established to inspire philanthropy on the islands. She will also manage the Leadership Program for the Islands now in its second year. 

“The opportunity to lead CFI allows me to use my interest in service to enhance the support of the nonprofit community on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, as the Charitable Foundation has emerged as a force in this area.””
— Dolly Farrell

Listen to Dolly Farrell’s guest appearance on “The Dove” 105.5 WDUV Radio with Anne Kelly. She spoke about “Inspire! SanCap Volunteer Expo” and the many ways to get involved with hurricane recovery.