Wine Festival chief ends successful run

Dawn Montecalvo, one of the most successful charity fundraisers on the Gulf Coast, is leaving the Naples Children & Education Foundation in March.

As executive director of the foundation, Montecalvo oversaw six annual Naples Winter Wine Festivals that raised a total of more than $67 million. She plans to leave after the next festival this winter “to pursue new challenges in the nonprofit arena.” Her last day will be March 1.

Festival spokeswoman Andrea Steffy says Montecalvo plans to remain in the Naples area, though she had no details on what Montecalvo will do next. Foundation trustees are currently seeking a replacement.

The annual Naples wine festival has become a national draw in the winter, attracting stars and captains of industry with exclusive dinners prepared by celebrity chefs such as Emeril Lagasse and extravagant auction lots. The money raised is distributed to children's charities in Collier County.