ROCKFORD, Ill. (Nov. 21, 2025) – Phantom Regiment is proud to announce the hiring of Abby Finley as the organization’s new Director of Development. Abby joins the team with a lifelong connection to the marching arts and a strong background in nonprofit fundraising, relationship building, and strategic partnerships.

Raised in a drum corps family, Abby spent her childhood surrounded by the traditions, camaraderie, and high standards that define this activity. That early foundation created a deep appreciation for the transformative power of the drum corps experience, something she carries into her professional work with purpose and sincerity.

Abby brings a wide range of qualifications to Phantom Regiment. She holds a degree in graphic design, a master’s degree in nonprofit administration, and professional certificates in grant writing and nonprofit management. She was also recently honored by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce as part of its 2025 class of 40 Under 40. This recognition highlights emerging leaders in the Rockford region who demonstrate exceptional dedication, professional achievement, and community impact before the age of forty.

In her role as Director of Development, Abby will partner with the CEO and Development Committee to establish annual fundraising goals and support the long term sustainability of the organization. She will lead all fundraising campaigns and events, from major national performances to ticketed experiences, while proactively identifying, cultivating, and stewarding donors, sponsors, and volunteers. Her work also includes ensuring thoughtful donor and sponsor recognition through acknowledgments, reporting, and fulfillment of benefits, collaborating with the marketing team to promote fundraising initiatives across communities, and managing the donor database with a focus on accuracy, segmentation, and integration with financial systems.

CEO Amanda Hamaker shared her excitement for Abby’s arrival, saying: “We have had great success in the last few years with our fundraising efforts, and we are excited about Abby joining our team to take our fundraising and development efforts to the next level. With her background, she brings a wealth of knowledge from outside the drum corps activity, while also knowing the activity, which will benefit us in ways that we have not had access to before.”

Abby is eager to bring both her personal passion and her professional expertise to Phantom Regiment. She is committed to advancing the organization’s mission by growing philanthropic support, building meaningful relationships, and strengthening the organization’s ability to serve performers, alumni, and fans.

She currently resides in Rockford, Illinois, with her husband, their adoptive and foster children, and their ten pound Rat Terrier named George.

Phantom Regiment is proud to welcome Abby to the team and looks forward to the impact she will make as the organization continues to grow.