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Event Emcee and Moderator

Elevating high-stakes events with clarity, energy and purpose

When the stakes are high, the emcee matters. Gilda brings seasoned leadership presence, sharp preparation and authentic energy to ensure events run smoothly, messages land clearly, and audiences stay fully engaged, from opening remarks to final close.

Trusted by organizations across corporate, nonprofit and academic sectors, Gilda serves as a strategic partner to event teams, not just a voice on stage.

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More Than a Host, Gilda is a Strategic Partner

Great events don’t happen by chance. They are carefully designed, rehearsed and executed. As an emcee and moderator, Gilda  works closely with event leaders and production teams to:

  • Clarify goals and key messages

  • Shape the run-of-show for flow, pacing and impact

  • Prepare speakers to deliver with confidence and credibility

  • Adapt seamlessly in real time, whether managing transitions, timing or unexpected changes

 

The result: a polished, engaging experience that reflects the importance of the moment and the mission behind it.

Gilda is frequently engaged to emcee:

  • Signature nonprofit events and fundraising galas

  • Corporate conferences, leadership summits and town halls

  • Executive forums and board-level programs

  • Awards ceremonies and milestone celebrations

  • Hybrid and virtual events requiring strong audience connection

 

She is particularly valued in environments involving senior leaders, board members, elected officials, donors and key stakeholders.

What Clients Value Most

Clients consistently cite Gilda’s ability to:

  • Create immediate connection with diverse audiences

  • Keep programs moving smoothly and on schedule

  • Balance professionalism with warmth and relatability

  • Reinforce messaging without overshadowing speakers

  • Maintain energy and focus throughout long or complex programs

 

Her calm presence and preparation allow event leaders to focus on their guests, knowing the program is in capable hands.

A Trusted Presence for High-Visibility Moments

From behind-the-scenes preparation to confident delivery on stage, Gilda brings deep experience and sound judgment to every engagement. Whether guiding a room of hundreds or moderating an intimate leadership conversation, she helps ensure each event achieves its purpose and leaves a lasting impression.

Let's Talk About Your Event

​If you’re planning a high-stakes event and looking for an experienced, trusted emcee who understands both the stage and the strategy behind it, Gilda would welcome the conversation.

Contact Gilda today or call 203-979-5117 to discuss your upcoming event!.

See what Gilda's clients have said about the benefits of working with her

Find out about Gilda's Keynote Speeches and Individual Coaching.

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Fran Pastore

CEO

Women’s Business Development Council

A trusted partner for our most visible and mission-critical events.

"For more than a decade, Gilda has been a trusted partner to the Women’s Business Development Council and to me personally. She has served as Emcee and Speaker Producer for many of our most visible and high-stakes events, including our Annual Gala & Awards Ceremony—which brings together business leaders from across Connecticut, members of our congressional delegation, the Governor, and state legislators—and Women-Owned Business Day at the State Capitol, a strategic advocacy event that convenes state leaders and elected officials in support of women entrepreneurs.
Gilda brings an extraordinary blend of strategic thinking, preparation, and on-stage presence. She works effortlessly with our leadership team, staff, and partners to shape the program and ensure that every speaker—whether an elected official, honoree, or client—feels confident, prepared, and aligned with our mission. On stage, she creates warmth, clarity, and flow; behind the scenes, she brings calm, judgment, and a steady hand to moments that truly matter.
Gilda consistently elevates the impact of everything she touches. She understands our mission deeply, anticipates what’s needed, and shows up with professionalism and grace every single time. I trust her completely and value her not only as a collaborator, but as an essential member of our extended leadership team."

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Camelia Lawrence, MD, FACS

Director, Breast Surgery Central Region

Hartford HealthCare

A trusted partner in delivering a polished and impactful event

“Gilda demonstrated the highest level of professionalism, preparation, and composure throughout her role as Emcee for the Barnum Festival Luncheon. She brought a dynamic presence while maintaining precise control of the program, ensuring a seamless flow and sustained audience engagement. She worked collaboratively with our team behind the scenes, thoughtfully aligning with event goals and key messaging to ensure clear, effective communication. Her ability to adapt in real time, manage transitions, and maintain momentum contributed significantly to the overall success of the luncheon. Gilda was a trusted partner in delivering a polished and impactful event, and I would recommend her without hesitation to any organization seeking a skilled, reliable, and engaging emcee.”

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Valeta Prendergast

Development and External Relations Director

B1C Building One Community

One of the best emcees & facilitators

"Gilda is one of the best emcees and facilitators that I have had the pleasure to work with. She brings professionalism, relatability, and approachability to her work. Gilda was instrumental during our organization’s largest signature event of the year, where we attracted donors, elected officials, board members, volunteers, and other key stakeholders. Gilda’s expertise enabled us to drive donations during the live fundraising portion of the event in a much more succinct way than it had been done in prior years. We would love to continue working with Gilda in the coming years, because she brings so much knowledge of what it takes to run a successful event - from planning the run-of-show, scripting and rehearsing speeches, and having familiarity with a wide range of venues."

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Natalie Holland

Event Director

Westfair Business Journal

A fantastic choice for an EmCee who can expertly manage and connect with an audience

"Gilda Bonanno was an exceptional EmCee for our inaugural Hispanic Innovator event. Her warmth, professionalism, and genuine ability to connect with both our honorees and the audience elevated the evening. Gilda created an atmosphere that was both engaging and timely. Her ability to introduce our 19 honorees, each with their unique story, was exceptional. She effortlessly set the perfect stage for them to share their profound 'Beyond the Bio' insights, ensuring that the thought-provoking questions we posed landed with maximum impact, all while keeping us right on schedule.
The overall feedback of Hispanic Innovators has been overwhelmingly positive, with Gilda’s involvement contributing to the event's success, making the experience more engaging for everyone. Gilda is a fantastic choice for an EmCee who can expertly manage and connect with an audience."

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