When people think about the Ashokan Center, they often think of unforgettable moments: a child’s first hike through the woods, musicians gathering on porches as the sun rises, friends reconnecting over a shared love of nature, history, music, and art.
Behind every one of those experiences is a community of supporters who help make them possible.
Helping nurture those relationships is Marni Pasch, who recently stepped into the role of Donor Relations Officer at the Ashokan Center.
After joining the organization in October 2023 as Development Associate, Marni has become an integral part of the Development team, connecting with donors, supporting fundraising campaigns, and helping ensure that supporters see the lasting impact of their generosity.
A Connection That Began with the Wiggly Bridge
Marni’s Ashokan story began long before she joined the staff.
After relocating to the Hudson Valley from Florida in early 2023, she attended Hot Chocolate Fest with her daughters.
“When we relocated to the Hudson Valley in January of 2023, Hot Chocolate Fest was my first Hudson Valley event that I attended with my daughters,” Marni recalls. “We crossed the Wiggly Bridge, and I knew our move was the right one.”
When an opportunity to join the Ashokan staff became available later that year, she knew exactly where she wanted to be.
“I applied, wanting to help others feel that connection to home Ashokan provides and support the programs that brought so much joy to others.”
Growing Alongside the Community
During her time at Ashokan, Marni has embraced countless opportunities to learn, grow, and become part of the community.
“I am deeply grateful for my time at Ashokan,” she says. “The staff and community have been warm and welcoming. I’ve even been pulled onto the dance floor, two left feet and all. Everyone wants you to try something new and cheers you on in the process.”
That willingness to encourage growth is something she believes defines the Ashokan experience.
“I love that the Ashokan community—staff and attendees alike—wants you to try something new. Whether it’s someone who just started playing the fiddle coming to camp or a child who has never been on a hike, people at Ashokan want you to enjoy the process of growth.”
She adds that the same encouragement inspired her personally.
“Witnessing that spirit inspired me to perform again, and when my husband and I played our first show together, many of our biggest supporters were Ashokan staff.”
A Passion for Building Relationships
As Donor Relations Officer, Marni’s role centers on connecting with supporters and helping them stay engaged with Ashokan’s mission.
“I have the privilege of getting to know our supporters and their stories, keeping them connected to the impact of their generosity, and exploring the ways they might continue to support our mission.”
For Marni, donor relations are about far more than fundraising.
“What excites me most is learning what people find meaningful about their Ashokan experience, and sharing gratitude for the ways they’re able to support our work.”
She sees every gift as part of a much larger story.
“Every gift tells a story, and seeing those stories come together is a beautiful reminder of how much this community loves Ashokan.”
Supporting Ashokan’s Mission
The Development team plays a vital role in ensuring Ashokan’s programs continue to thrive.
“The Development team is responsible for building and sustaining the relationships that make Ashokan’s work possible,” Marni explains. “This includes fundraising campaigns, grant writing, and stewardship.”
She credits much of her growth to working alongside Chief Development Officer Sara Trapani.
“One of the things I’ve come to appreciate is the care this work requires. Sara Trapani models that every day. She approaches stewardship with a genuine desire to help supporters feel more connected to Ashokan and with deep gratitude. During my time as Development Associate, I’ve learned a great deal from Sara’s approach, and I hope to carry that same spirit into my new role as Donor Relations Officer.”
Finding Inspiration Every Day
When asked about her favorite Ashokan memories, Marni doesn’t point to a single event. Instead, she reflects on the people who make Ashokan special.
“I have many favorite memories, but the ones that stay with me most are watching our staff share what they love about their work.”
She recalls Lisa Hurley giving wedding tours by golf cart, Del sharing his passion for the land during guided hikes, Bill and Colleen caring for homesick students, and the maintenance team’s dedication to keeping the campus beautiful.
“The list could go on forever. There’s a genuine passion people bring to their work here that brings me great joy.”
As summer approaches, she’s especially looking forward to another cherished Ashokan tradition.
“I look forward to the rhythm of Music & Dance Camp and arriving on campus in the early morning to the sounds of musicians warming up on the porch of Esopus. It’s a different energy than the laughter of students during the school year, but both are beautiful music.”
Looking Ahead
For Marni, the heart of Ashokan is the sense of belonging people discover here.
“What I find meaningful about Ashokan is that it’s a place that welcomes you as you are, and cheers you on as you grow.”
She laughs that she arrived with “a music collection filled with more Phil Collins and punk than fiddles and banjos,” yet immediately felt at home.
“This is what I’ve observed in so many stories I’ve heard: people finding a sense of belonging as soon as they walk under the Ashokan arbor, and carrying that feeling into other areas of their life.”
As she begins this new chapter, Marni is excited to help even more people become part of that story.
“I’m very pleased to step into the role of Donor Relations Officer and help make more of those stories possible.”
Connect with Marni
Interested in learning more about supporting the Ashokan Center or how your generosity can make a lasting impact?
Marni would love to hear from you.
Marni Pasch
Donor Relations Officer
📧 marni.pasch@ashokancenter.org
📞 845-657-8333 ext. 32