Nancy Leghart

Nancy Leghart serves as the Director of Development for Smile Farms, leading all fundraising, donor engagement, and strategic partnership efforts to advance the organization’s mission.  Her responsibilities include cultivating and stewarding individual, corporate and foundation donors; developing and executing major gift strategies and appeals; overseeing signature events and strengthening brand visibility.  

Background and Experience 

• Nancy earned her Bachelor of Science degree from New York University. 

• She began her career as Information Officer and later Director of Advancement for the Mill Neck Family of Organizations, serving individuals who are Deaf and/or have other disabilities. 

• Most recently, she founded and launched the St. John’s ICARE Foundation in support of St. John’s Episcopal Hospital and Episcopal Health Services, serving as its inaugural Executive Director. 

• Beyond her professional work, Nancy has held leadership roles with the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and the Gold Coast Mansion Alliance, served as editor of the book “Mill Neck at the Millennium,” and has been recognized with numerous honors, including Four Leaf’s inaugural Visionary Award, the Herald Long Island Excellence in Healthcare Award, the Schneps Queens Power Woman Award, and the Hearts of Change Award. 

Fun Facts 

Nancy is a musician and composer who writes across genres, including pop, children’s music, jingles, and special event pieces. One of her proudest works is a second-grade graduation song for the Cherry Lane School in Carle Place, which has been performed annually for more than 30 years. Outside of music, she enjoys cooking—especially for her family, which includes her two daughters and five beloved grandchildren.