The Portsmouth Museums Foundation is pleased to announce the hire of Laura Bynum as its full-time Executive Director. A Portsmouth native and experienced nonprofit leader, Bynum brings more than 15 years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, volunteer leadership, community engagement, and organizational development.
In her most recent role as Development Director for the American Heart Association’s Hampton Roads market, Bynum led the organization’s Heart Ball and Go Red for Women campaigns. She cultivated major philanthropic investments, partnered with corporate and community leaders, and recruited and coached executive-level volunteers to advance the organization’s mission.
Bynum previously served as Executive Director of the Arthritis Foundation’s Virginia Chapter, where she managed staff, oversaw a six-figure fundraising budget, expanded special events, developed healthcare partnerships, and implemented strategies that strengthened revenue and long-term organizational stability. Her nonprofit career also includes leadership and development roles with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, National Kidney Foundation, and Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
“Returning to Portsmouth in this role is both a professional opportunity and a personal privilege,” said Bynum. “The Children’s Museum of Virginia was part of my childhood, and I am excited to help ensure that today’s children and families continue to experience the same sense of discovery, learning, and joy. I look forward to working with the Foundation’s Board, museum leadership, donors, volunteers, and community partners to build on the Foundation’s strong history and expand its impact for generations to come.”
As Executive Director, Bynum will lead the Portsmouth Museums Foundation’s fundraising and development efforts, strengthen relationships with donors and community partners, support the Foundation’s Board of Directors, and help advance initiatives that preserve and enhance Portsmouth’s museums. Her extensive background in nonprofit leadership and resource development positions the Foundation for continued growth, success, and meaningful community impact.
“Laura’s experience, energy, and deep connection to Portsmouth make her an exceptional fit for the Foundation,” said Bridget Host, Foundation Board President. “Her proven success in fundraising and relationship-building will help us strengthen our organization and pursue new opportunities to support the Children’s Museum of Virginia and Portsmouth’s broader museum community.”
Bynum holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Ferrum College. She lives in Portsmouth with her husband, Bennett, their two children, and their two dogs.
The Portsmouth Museums Foundation is committed to supporting the Children’s Museum of Virginia and advancing educational, cultural, and community initiatives that enrich the lives of children and families throughout Portsmouth and Hampton Roads. With Bynum’s leadership, the Foundation looks forward to building on its strong foundation and creating an even greater future for the museums and the community they serve.
