WHRO Public Media is pleased to announce the promotion of Kate Pringle, CFRE, to Vice President of Development, effective January 17, 2026.
Kate assumes the role following the announcement of Tom Burton’s upcoming retirement. In her new position, she joins WHRO’s Senior Management Team and will oversee all areas of development, including membership, major and planned giving, grants, program underwriting, The Voice, volunteer engagement, and front-desk operations.
Kate has been a member of the WHRO team since 2020, most recently serving as Director of Major and Planned Giving. During her tenure, she has played a key role in strengthening donor relationships, expanding philanthropic support, and advancing a culture of giving that sustains WHRO’s mission to serve the community through trusted journalism, education, and the arts.
“Kate brings exceptional fundraising expertise, steady leadership, and a deep commitment to WHRO’s mission,” said Bert Schmidt, President and CEO of WHRO Public Media. “Her experience and collaborative approach position her well to lead our development efforts and support WHRO’s long-term sustainability.”
Before joining WHRO, Kate held development roles at Norfolk Collegiate and The Williams School, where she led comprehensive fundraising efforts and strengthened philanthropic engagement. She began her career in education as a high school educator with Virginia Beach City Public Schools and brings more than a decade of experience advancing nonprofit and educational organizations in Hampton Roads.
“I’m honored to step into this role at WHRO,” said Kate. “I look forward to working with our generous supporters, volunteers, and colleagues to continue building the resources that make trusted public media possible for our community.”
Kate holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Old Dominion University and currently serves on the board of the Hampton Roads Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. She lives in Norfolk with her family.