Our Staff

Since I joined the Foundation full-time in 2016, I have helped to spread the word about our work through advertising, sponsorships, and telling stories of impact in our annual report and online. I appreciate the opportunity to highlight the donors and nonprofits working to make my hometown a better place.

Before joining the Foundation, I held a variety of roles in insurance and financial services across marketing, brand management, and research. I hold a bachelor’s in business administration and economics from Gordon College and an MBA from the University of Hartford.

When I am not writing at my desk, you will likely find me writing in one of my half-filled journals, cheering for a soccer match, or baking muffins.

In 2025. I became Director of the Connecticut Urban Opportunity Collaborative, a partnership between the state’s three largest community foundations. My role is to advance programs and policies that work to dismantle structural racism and help build social and economic mobility in the state’s urban centers with a focus on Bridgeport, Hartford, and New Haven.

As a native of Bridgeport, Conn., my career has been dedicated to improving the health and well-being of our most vulnerable communities through the non-profit and government sectors, including serving as the Director of Health and Human Services for the City of Hartford and UnidosUS’s Institute for Hispanic Health as well as the Senior Director of Health Equity at Power to Decide. I am also an adjunct professor at UConn where I teach a seminar to undergraduates spending a semester learning more about Connecticut’s urban communities.

A graduate of Wellesley College (BA) and Columbia University (MPH), I am currently pursuing my MBA at Yale University as a Pozen-Commonwealth Fund Fellow in Health Equity Leadership.

At the Foundation, I am a member of the Basic Human Needs and Thriving Neighborhoods outcome teams, with a specific focus on housing and solving homeless Initiatives.

Throughout my career, my work has focused on addressing stable housing and homelessness prevention. In the past, I led a team of Rapid Rehousing Support Specialists with Community Housing Resources, collaborated with nonprofit organizations in Connecticut and Massachusetts with the Corporation for Independent Living, and managed transitional living programs for Mercy Housing and Shelter.

I earned my bachelor’s from Central Connecticut State University, but you can still hear some of my native New Orleans in my voice, especially if we are talking about football, art, or coffee.

I joined the Foundation in 2016 as part of the grants administration team. Today, I lead the team that oversees grants and scholarships administration. My role also includes troubleshooting the technology behind our grants and scholarships applications and providing Foundation staff with valuable reports.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Clarkson University, which has helped me see ways to improve our various processes.

Recently, I traded my hockey skates for cycling shoes and even wear golf spikes now and then.

As a Senior Accountant, I work closely with the grants administration team on the grantmaking process and ensure investment activities are recorded in the Foundation’s financial system and reconciliation of assets.

Since joining the Foundation in 2021, I’ve found many more things to do in Greater Hartford.

My role as Director of Development blends many things that I love. Working with donors to support the important and life-changing work of non-profits is extremely rewarding. And as a Hartford resident, I am grateful to serve the community I call home.

I joined the Foundation in 2016 as a member of the donor advised fund team. Previously, I held roles in the non-profit and corporate sectors including banking, healthcare and higher education.

I am a proud alumna of Trinity College where I continue to serve in alumni leadership roles.

I manage day-to-day happenings throughout the office, and help make it an organized, productive, and supportive place to be. I appreciate all the work that our team does together and have every day since I joined the Foundation in 2007.

When I’m not working, you might find me crafting wreaths and I am always up for a conversation about native birds.

I’m a Program Manager for the Community Funds; I support 14 volunteer committees as they invest in local initiatives that center community voice, equity, and sustainability. My work is about creating space for people to lead from where they are — and making sure they have the tools to do it well.

Before philanthropy, I worked in qualitative research, connecting brands to the realities of consumers’ lived experiences. I also held leadership roles in community-based nonprofits where I built partnerships, led outreach efforts, and supported programs that put people first. One of my proudest career moments I was launching Connecticut’s first online energy assistance application in 2019 — a project that showed me what’s possible when teams stay grounded in real-life needs.

I’m a proud Eastern Connecticut State grad with a degree in Sociology and a minor in Communication — so yes, I’ve basically been studying people and their patterns since day one. I’m a certified moderator through the Burke Institute and a 2023 QRCA Award winner for Excellence in Qualitative Research.

Outside of work, I’m happiest traveling with my family, tending to my little backyard garden, and living my best cat-lady life.

I joined the Foundation’s Learning and Evaluation team in 2021. My experience in participatory research methods, gender analysis, trauma-informed approaches and community-centered evaluations have helped the Foundation support the work of our many non- profit partners and have added to our local data ecosystem.

My background includes a wide range of roles and geographies. I was awarded a Fulbright to teach English in Nepal, I’ve taught high school in Bristol, CT, managed an anti-human trafficking program in Massachusetts, and led research teams in Uganda and Zambia. It is wonderful to be back home.

My work involves multiple portfolios.

As Strategy Lead for the Community Funds Program, I oversee program development and strategy implementation, helping volunteers understand participatory grantmaking practices and leverage resources for their communities.

As a Senior Officer of the Capacity Building team, I oversee our strategies to support small and emerging nonprofits in their organizational strengthening as well as oversee our organizational assessments program which connects nonprofits with organizational development consultants for strategic advising.

I am a community organizer at heart, and I have a passion for supporting communities to get the resources they need to succeed; one of my first roles was as the founding Executive Director of CT Students for a Dream. I’m also a proud UConn Husky (with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government), coffee lover, and fan of tech gadgets.

As the head of Campaign Operations, I manage the Greater Futures Scholarship Campaign and work with individuals, families and organizations to realize their philanthropic goals.

Before joining the Foundation in 2019, I was Director of Major Gifts at Hartford Hospital and Director of Development at Kingswood-Oxford School.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in physical education and math from the University of Vermont and a master’s degree in educational administration from Temple University.

An avid runner, I also serve on the board of the Montessori School of Greater Hartford and enjoy traveling with my family.

I joined the Foundation’s Advancement department in 2017 and have worked in multiple roles, including with our giving circles, professional advisors, and other groups, prospect development, and data management. Today, as Advancement Operations Manager, I focus on building engagement, awareness, and satisfaction among donors and other stakeholders.

The Foundation has been my first experience in the non-profit world. Most of my previous career experience was in journalism, including as an editor at the Connecticut Post, The Trentonian, and The Middletown Press.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in journalism from Boston University and my MBA from UMass Amherst. I also co-own a bricks-and-mortar guitar store with my husband.

Since joining the Foundation in 2018, I’ve had the opportunity to grow through various roles supporting donor-advised funds. Now as a Community Philanthropy Officer, I work with a diverse portfolio of funds to help donors make meaningful connections with their grantmaking.

My journey to the Foundation began after graduating from UConn and serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA, experiences that sparked my passion for mission-driven work and showed me the vital role nonprofits play in strengthening communities. At the Foundation, I’ve been able to witness firsthand how philanthropy can create positive change in our region.

Outside of work, you’ll find me connecting with my community through group hikes and walks, yoga, martial arts, gardening, supporting local businesses and events, and attending creative workshops and classes.

Since 2019, I have been leading the team responsible for the Foundation’s communications and marketing efforts, including media relations, brand strategy and awareness, social media and donor communications. It’s a pleasure to be able to share stories about the work we do in partnership with our generous donors, nonprofit grantees and dedicated volunteers.

Previously, I spent 20 years as a television news anchor, reporter and producer in Connecticut and Michigan. I attended Dartmouth College and UCLA, and love to travel with my wife and our three grown kids. We plan to eat our way around the world for years to come.

As a Community Philanthropy Manager, I support the Foundation’s donor-advised fund program. I handle a variety of fund liaison and grantmaking activities.

I am passionate about volunteering, and I recently participated in PEACE Building programs with UNICEF and The Red Cross.

Within the Foundation, I’m known for celebrating holidays by decorating the office and brightening our shared spaces.

I joined the Foundation early in 2020 and helped transition our staff to working remotely. Today I provide technical support and troubleshooting to staff and volunteers, ensuring everything from our printers to our cloud servers are able to support our work.

When I am not encouraging everyone to restart their laptops, you may find me trading recipes, raising houseplants, and talking about my prior homes in Florida and Jamaica.

Since I came to the Foundation in 2022, I’ve had the privilege of working with donors and new partners through our giving circles. I’m a Hartford native who still finds opportunities to explore Greater Hartford and meet new people along the way.

Previously, I worked with CREC and Hartford Public Schools, fostering meaningful relationships between schools, families, and the broader community. I’ve volunteered internationally to build schools in underdeveloped countries, and co-founded a nonprofit called Team Up that focused on bringing people together to do good.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Resource Economics and my master’s degree in public administration, both from UConn. Traveling and staying active are my go-to ways to recharge and stay balanced in work and life.

I joined the Foundation in 2011 as the first Assistant Director of our Early Childhood initiative and since then, have had the opportunity to serve across many of our departments. Today, I lead our grantmaking, learning and evaluation, capacity building, and public policy strategy and serve on our Executive Leadership Team. I am also the current board chair for Connecticut Council for Philanthropy.

I have worked in the nonprofit and public sectors for three decades. My career has focused on collaborative efforts to advance opportunities for children impacted by child welfare and justice systems, working as Assistant Child Advocate for the Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate and Senior Policy Advisor for the New York State Chief Justice’s Commission on Justice for Children. Prior to these roles, I supported people living with HIV/AIDS in leadership positions at Gay Men’s Health Crisis and the Bronx AIDS Consultation Services.

I am the proud mom of three amazing young women and one hearing service dog. Born and raised in New York, I am grateful to have called Greater Hartford my home for the past 24 years.

I joined the Foundation in 2019 to lead the organization’s human resources-related efforts, including staff development, talent acquisition, compensation, and benefits.

I earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Boston College and then began a career in Human Resources. I am passionate about contributing to mission-driven organizations and believe in the ability of strategic human resources to foster better workplaces. With over 25 years of experience in HR across nonprofit sectors, including healthcare, higher education and philanthropy, I aim to bring my expertise in talent management, employee engagement, and organizational development to support our staff in the pursuit of our mission.

As Information Technology Officer, I oversee the Foundation’s entire IT infrastructure including hardware, software, security, training and networking. I’ve been with the Foundation since 2000 and have helped the Foundation use advances in technology to better support its work.

My role is to lead the Foundation’s donor engagement initiatives that promote deep and lasting connections with donors at all levels. I am passionate about education and community engagement, with more than 20 years of experience in advancement, events, and donor relations.

Before coming to the Foundation in 2025, I led advancement for a small STEM and outdoor education-focused organization. I’ve also held several leadership roles at Wesleyan University and at Blackbaud.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Plant and Soil Science from the University of Vermont. You will often find me outdoors with my family, or volunteering for educational groups in my hometown.

I serve as a Senior Community Impact Officer, leading strategic investments in K-12 education, post-secondary success, and workforce development. A proud Hartford native and resident, my life and work are deeply rooted in the city’s people, institutions, and future.

Previously, I led Hartford Working Cities, a systems change initiative at the United Way of Central and Northeast Connecticut. The initiative launched innovative programs such as Young Legends of Hartford, which uplifted youth voices and leadership, and Workforce Navigation, which connected residents to employment pathways and support services.

Outside of the office, I serve as Co-Chair of the Workforce Affinity Group with the Connecticut Council for Philanthropy, as a member of the City of Hartford’s Workforce Transition Committee, on the Investors Committee with Workforce Solutions of Greater Hartford, and on the Advisory Task Board for ROCA Inc. I was appointed a Commissioner for the City of Hartford LGBTQIA+ Commission.

I earned bachelor’s degree from Bradford College, an MS in Organizational Leadership from Mercy College, and an MS in Professional Counseling from Central Connecticut State University.

I came to the Foundation’s grantmaking team in 2013. I provide support for many of the team’s complex projects, especially Basic Human Needs, Civic and Resident Engagement, and the Community Funds. My career has crossed a number of nonprofit and for-profit industries, but working at the Foundation has been especially rewarding.

Outside of the office, I enjoy time with friends and anything purple.

I joined the Foundation in 2023 as a Grants Associate, working closely with Finance and Accounting teams to ensure that our grants get processed and out to the community.

I was born and raised in Hartford but gained a world of knowledge and experience for my undergrad at Washington University in St. Louis. Now back in Hartford, working to streamline the Foundation’s mission.

As Senior Development Officer, I build meaningful relationships with donors who desire a vibrant future for our community. I am a 21/64 Certified Advisor with deep knowledge of multigenerational family philanthropy.

Most recently at the Foundation, I was responsible for scholarship funds that support over 600 students in Greater Hartford. Before joining the Foundation, I was in higher education, corporation internship, and professional liability industries. I earned my bachelor’s degree in political science from Spelman College and am the president of its local alumnae chapter.

Community involvement is important to me: I am a Diamond Life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, parliamentarian of the Farmington Valley Chapter of The Links, and chair the Historical Society of First Baptist Church in Milford. I have served in leadership roles for the American School for the Deaf, Aurora Women and Girls Foundation, and Junior League of Hartford.

As an Accounting Manager, I help process payments for our grantees, assist in preparing the Foundation’s tax return, and review fund reporting.

After graduating from Fairfield University in 2008, I spent 13 years working in the nonprofit sector, specifically focusing on high-net- worth private foundations. I joined the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving in 2021 and have thoroughly enjoyed helping support the Greater Hartford community. My family loves to travel all through Hartford County and always gets excited when we find something new to try with our kids.

I joined the Foundation in April 2025. As an Advancement Operations Associate, I support our donors by processing gifts, maintaining data, and assisting in coordinating Giving Circle events.

Previously, I served as Visitor Services and Rental Coordinator for the Wethersfield Historical Society, facilitating space rentals, coordinating volunteers, and managing event logistics.

I use my creative side as the Associate Artistic Director of Time’s Fool Company, a professional theatre company based in Wethersfield, CT. I hold a BFA in Theatre with a Specialization in Performance.

I have been with the Hartford Foundation since 2014 and provide administrative and programmatic support to the Foundation’s Nonprofit Support Program (NSP). I help to coordinate and implement many of NSPs initiatives including Executive Management Institute, Building Human Resources Capacity, the Board Leadership Program and the Strategic Technology Program. Prior to coming to the Foundation, I worked for Clemow Consulting Group, a consulting firm to nonprofit organizations.

As a Senior Communications Officer, I use storytelling to uplift the voices of donors, grantees, and residents making an impact across Greater Hartford.

I’ve led campaigns like IAMNOTAVIRUS and Make Us Visible, which helped pass the No Hate Act and AAPI history legislation in Connecticut. My storytelling has been recognized by Connecticut Magazine’s 40 Under 40 (2023) and the Connecticut Asian Pacific American Bar Association.

Previously, I worked at the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History, served as Storyteller for UConn’s Boys and Men of Color Summit, and was Activist-in-Residence at UConn AAASI.

I’m raising my family in my hometown of West Hartford and ask: How can we help people tell their stories with care?

I joined the Foundation in 2024 as leader of the Advancement team (which includes Development, Donor Experience, and Community Philanthropy).

While I grew up I Philadelphia, I built my nonprofit career in southern Indiana, including serving as Executive Director of the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County. I have experience in volunteer management, annual fund campaigns, grant administration, and planned giving. I enjoy the many opportunities that the Foundation affords me to meet the wonderful people of Greater Hartford.

I am passionate about continuing education; I hold three degrees from Spalding University (an MS, MBA and EdD) along with a BA in Communications from IU Southeast. I published my first book in 2024 focusing on creating sustainable leadership approaches.

As Director of Finance, I lead the Foundation’s financial operations, including oversight of audits, financial statements, and Form 990 filings. I also manage key functions such as grants and scholarship financial administration, investment operations, accounts payable, and the organization’s financial systems.

I joined the Foundation in May 2025, bringing with me 18 years of experience from the Williston Northampton School, where I successfully managed capital project spending, budgeting, audits, and long-term financial planning.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Westfield State University and an MBA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

My role is to support engagement through relationship building, stewardship communications, events, and coordination across the donor experience. Before joining the Foundation, I served as Manager of Membership at The Connecticut Mirror. I also held development roles at Chrysalis Center and Community Renewal Team, focusing on donor relations, communications, and operational support.

I am a Greater Hartford native, earning my bachelor’s degree in Sociology, with a minor in Community Engagement, from Central Connecticut State University.

When I’m not in the office, you’ll find me exploring state parks and museums, vintage shopping, and looking for the perfect appetizer. I visited 42 of the 50 states before I turned 16, which sparked a love of travel and exploration.

I oversee financial and internal operations at the Foundation, including Finance, Investments, Human Resources and Information Technology. I spent the majority of my career in financial and operational roles at a Connecticut-based life insurance company, and I served as Chief Operating Officer for the City of Hartford.

I earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Western New England University.

Volunteering is one of the most important aspects of my life.  I currently serve as a trustee of the Bushnell and a board member of the IQUILT Partnership. I also served as a board member of the CT Forum and the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation, just to name a few.

I am a Program Manager for the Greater Together Community Funds, helping volunteer committees support local initiatives that foster empowerment and sustainability.

My nonprofit experience includes more than a decade of designing and delivering high-impact training, program management, and child life services. Most recently, I worked as the Training and Development Consultant Manager at the Crisis Prevention Institute.

I earned my master’s in Child Life from Bank Street College and my bachelor’s in Accounting from the University of Connecticut. Outside of the office, I enjoy volunteering for family weekends at the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp.

Since 2006, I’ve been inspired by serving in grantmaking and policy roles at the Foundation. My current focus is building public-private partnerships to advance shared community interests among philanthropic, government, and other organizations. My role includes implementing our public policy work and informing the Foundation’s grantmaking policy.

Before working at the Foundation, I served in roles that continue to expand my perspective on our work. My experience includes serving as vice president of program investments for YouthBuild USA, as deputy director of administration for the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, and as senior advisor to the assistant attorney general at the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs. Additional work on social justice includes directing the American Bar Association’s Criminal Justice Standards Project, its Gun Violence Project, and work with state courts to implement the ABA Guidelines for the Evaluation of Judicial Performance. My government and legislative experience also includes serving as assistant for congressional relations and intergovernmental affairs at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (appointed by the Carter Administration), and as a legislative assistant at the District of Columbia City Council.

Recently I served on the Federal Bank of Boston’s New England Community Development Advisory Council and currently support the Foundation’s participation in the Connecticut Urban Opportunity Collaborative.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in English and psychology from Wellesley College, a master’s degree in developmental psychology from George Washington University, and juris doctorate from the Georgetown Law Center.

Outside work, I enjoy tending flowers and seeding social justice.

My role at the Foundation is to support our human resources functions including payroll, recruitment, professional development and orientation. Before joining the Foundation in 2022, I spent four years with the State of Conn. supporting human resources efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion and equal employment opportunity regulation. Most recently, I worked in HR administration and recruitment at Wesleyan University.

My family relocated to Connecticut in 2018, and I enjoy spending time outdoors (often at one of my children’s soccer games) and drinking great coffee.

I earned my bachelor’s in Communications and Media Studies from Fordham University and my MBA in Human Resources Management from IONA University. I earned certifications in Project Management from IONA and Deliberative Dialogue and Mediation from Quinnipiac University.

I help to lead our organization-wide monitoring, evaluation, and learning function. I also help Foundation staff learn evaluative thinking to improve results that champion transparent, culturally responsive, and equitable evaluation.

Before coming to the Foundation, I worked as the Director for Inclusive Excellence Education and was a faculty member at Sacred Heart University and the University of Northern Colorado. I’ve also held various leadership positions in K-12 education and churches across the U.S.

Outside the office, I serve on the Middletown Anti-Racism Task Force, which partners with BIPOC stakeholders to center the voices leading racial justice work.

I earned my B.A. in music composition from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a M.Min. in religious leadership from Cincinnati Christian University, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Denver.

I came to the Foundation as a Community Impact Officer in 2024 to support grantmaking within the Basic Human Needs outcome team and Community Leadership team. I bring my experience promoting the health and wellness of youth and families along with my commitment to social justice and health equity.

I have cultivated partnerships and implemented programs in United States but also globally, including in Kenya, Nigeria, Liberia, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Haiti. Most recently, I worked at VentureWell as a program officer supporting global early-stage entrepreneurs in science and technology through a U.S. Department of State initiative.

I earned my MS in Community Health Education from Merrimack College and a BS in Nutrition from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and learning more about different cultures.

As the Senior Associate for Scholarships, I help with administrative aspects of our individual scholarship program, from application to selection and dispersal.

I came to the Foundation from the National Mental Health Corps where I managed program operations for their AmeriCorps program, including database maintenance, implementation of program-wide initiatives, and stakeholder support to name a few. I also have experience working with students from her time as the College Advisor at College Advising Corps (AmeriCorps).

I hold a Bachelor of Science, Allied Health Sciences and a minor in English from UCONN, all while being a member of their Honors Program.

I began working at the Hartford Foundation as an Administrative Assistant for over 16 years, in the Finance and Administration department retiring in 2016. In 2019, I began working part-time at the Foundation as a receptionist. It’s good to reconnect with old faces and meet new people.

I have been with the Foundation since 2018. As a senior officer, I lead the grantmaking strategy for the Foundation’s Thriving Neighborhoods outcome area, directing investments that advance stable housing, community development, and resident-owned small businesses. Additionally, I lead the Foundation’s ‘responsive’ grantmaking for emerging, exploratory, or time-sensitive funding initiatives through the Community Leadership portfolio.

Throughout my time at the Foundation, I have additionally managed a diverse set of grant opportunities, including the Community Funds program, Get Out the Vote funding, the Brainard Fund, and several field-of-interest funds.

Before coming to the Foundation, I worked in operations at Love146, an international nonprofit working to end child trafficking and exploitation. I graduated from Trinity College magna cum laude, and I earned my MS in Organizational Psychology from the University of Hartford in 2023. In my spare time, I love to ski, hike, run, and cuddle my dog, Ruby.

In October 2022, I joined the Foundation as a Community Impact Officer to support the Employment Opportunities and Civic and Resident Engagement teams.

I regularly draw on my background in education and family and community engagement experience. Most recently, I worked as a Community Engagement Specialist at CT RISE Network, partnering with high schools and school districts across the region. Previously I worked with refugee and immigrant populations in Bridgeport, and as a Community Partnership Manager with Girls Who Code.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Education from Fairfield University.

When I’m not in the office, I volunteer as a mentor and serve on the board of trustees at my all-girls high school alma mater.

As a Community Impact Associate, Traci provides program and administrative support for the Foundation’s Greater Together Community Fund initiatives and Capacity Building program.

Before joining the Foundation in 2024, I worked for several mission-driven organizations by providing customer service and support to colleagues and the community. Some of these organizations are the F.B. Heron Foundation, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, and The Kennedy Center.

I earned my bachelor’s degree from Eastern Conn. State University and my master’s from Southern Conn. State University. I am a curious person and love to ask questions and grow as a person. Some of my hobbies include gardening, playing cards & going on walks. Fun fact: I do a lot of dog walking in my neighborhood.

I am a Community Impact Officer on the Employment Opportunities Outcome Team, focusing on Post-secondary Success and Community Leadership. I also manage the Foundation’s summer programs work.

My previous professional experience is rooted in community engagement. From program management to family engagement and community partnerships development I earned a BA in Communication and a BA in Sociology from Eastern Connecticut State University and an MS in Organizational Communication from Bay Path University.

I was excited to join the Foundation in 2019. As a Front Office Receptionist, I answer incoming calls and provide a warm welcome and smile to employees and visitors alike.

Previously, I served as the Program Director for Common Ground, a student leadership & diversity program run by Leadership Greater Hartford, and as the Executive Director at the former Artworks Gallery. I also worked as an Integrated Trainer for Our Piece of the Pie.

What do you enjoy most about Greater Hartford?
Whether it’s a show or concert at the Bushnell, Hartford Stage, or a performance at Artists Collective, I’m always open to large crowds with noise and activity.

What quote best represents your personal philosophy?
“For the word of God is alive and exerts power – Hebrews 4:12

Are you involved in any volunteer activities?
I’m an avid event planner for my family and friends and I love teaching the bible!

I coordinate and manage the public affairs and community relations work at the Foundation to drive our public policy, media relations, and relationship development in the region.

It is my privilege to work across all our departments to build our media presence and public policy knowledge while deepening our presence in the region and with local organizations, policymakers, local media, and community members. Telling the stories of our work is one way I can help make a difference in Greater Hartford.

Before coming to the Foundation in 2012, I helped lead several grassroots initiatives in the state, including Connecticut’s indoor smoking ban, UConn 21st Century Infrastructure, and the construction of Rentschler Field in East Hartford. I am a proud UConn graduate and enjoy attending UConn soccer games.

I oversee the Foundation’s organizational capacity building programs and services, including Technical Assistance Grants, the Executive Transition Program, our Social Enterprise Accelerator, and other workshops and in-depth learning opportunities.

I have dedicated my career to the nonprofit sector and helping nonprofit organizations become more effective. Before coming to the Foundation, I spent several years working with the United Way and ran a grassroots community organizing initiative.

I earned my master’s degree in public and private management from the Yale School of Management, and have volunteered with organizations such as CT Public Broadcasting, services for the blind and elderly, Wethersfield Library’s Homebound Service and Wethersfield Village Improvement Association.

As a Senior Community Impact Officer, I lead the team responsible for grantmaking in our civic engagement, community organizing, and basic human needs outcome areas.

I’ve held positions at various philanthropic and nonprofit organizations in an array of programmatic roles including Capital Workforce Partners and American Savings Foundation in New Britain.

I earned my bachelor’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University and my master’s in public policy from Trinity College; I am grateful for the opportunity to bring my experience back to my hometown.

In the past I’ve served as a youth mentor and as an advisor to Capital Workforce Partners. I count my previous service on the board of the Blue Hills Civic Association among my proudest accomplishments.

I joined the Hartford Foundation in 2022. As a Senior Community Impact Associate, I serve on the Civic and Resident Engagement outcome team, helping resource resident-led advocacy and organizing efforts as well as inclusive civic processes. I am also part of the Community Leadership team, which responds to and funds emerging community needs and initiatives that advance the Foundation’s strategic priorities. Finally, I work with local healthcare providers to help them navigate and apply to the Foundation’s Brainard Fund on behalf of patients. This fund helps eliminate medical debt for middle- and working-class families across the Foundation’s region.

I graduated from Global Communications Academy as a Hartford Promise Scholar and am a proud graduate of Trinity College, Class of 2021. Before joining the Hartford Foundation, I served as the Community Liaison for the City of Hartford in the Office of Community Engagement.

My focus is supporting the leadership of the Foundation, including our President and Board of Directors. I also oversee governance matters and work on cross-functional projects as a member of the Executive Leadership Team.

I am a graduate of Wesleyan University and have spent most of my career working in nonprofit administration, primarily in education. I was thrilled to join the Foundation’s staff in 2025.

As a Senior Community Impact Officer, I work with local nonprofits to strengthen their financial management and technology capacity through planning, assessment, and grant funding. I also support planning and strategy development for the Community Impact department.

Before joining the Foundation in 2004, I served as Vice President of Finance and Administration for the Governor’s Prevention Partnership. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut and continue to learn through the programs delivered by the Foundation.

I have had the opportunity to serve on the boards of several nonprofits at the local and national level, lending my financial and technology expertise.

I came to the Foundation in 2017 to manage inquiries from prospective grantees. I help nonprofit leaders understand our grantmaking process and strategic priorities and draw connecting lines back to their work.

Previously I worked in community corrections, helping individuals in pretrial programs and on probation to develop crucial life and employment skills before returning to their communities. I also served as a U.S. Deputy Court Clerk in Hartford for the United States District Court. I earned my bachelor’s degree from UConn.

I serve on my community’s local school and scholarships boards and will always volunteer to help clean up litter!

I joined the Foundation in 2018 as a part of the Research and Evaluation unit. Today, as Director of Learning, Evaluation, and Capacity Building, I lead teams responsible for developing and implementing a wide range of data, knowledge, and capacity building resources and supports grounded in equitable principles that are in service of strengthening the regional nonprofit ecosystem.

Previously, I worked as a program evaluator in Massachusetts and Connecticut for more than 10 years. I earned my undergraduate degree in Economics and Political Science from Alfred University, my JD from the SUNY Buffalo Law School, and my MA and PhD in Social Policy from the Heller School at Brandeis University. In my spare time, I enjoy gardening, watching hockey (Go Sabres!), reading horror novels, and attending live music. I also serve on the advisory board for Expanding the Bench, an initiative committed to diversifying the evaluation field and elevating culturally responsive and equitable evaluation (CREE).

I joined the Foundation in 2024 and bring over five years of experience in India’s development sector with expertise in monitoring and evaluation using quantitative and qualitative methods for impact assessment and program evaluation.

In my last role at Salaam Bombay Foundation, I led multiple M&E and research projects for youth empowerment programs, collaborating with Harvard on longitudinal studies. As a research consultant, I managed impact evaluation projects focused on education, healthcare access, and livelihood opportunities across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology from University of Delhi and my master’s degree in public policy from University College London.

I joined the Foundation in 2012 and have worked to support the organization’s Development and Grantmaking teams. I joined the Scholarship Department in 2020 and today, as part of the Finance and Administration team, am a lead administrator for the Foundation’s individual scholarship program and grantmaking efforts.

I worked in the nonprofit field for most of my career and have a background in management, grant research, and writing. I received my degree in English and have completed premedical coursework in the health sciences. I am now a registered Yoga and Pilates instructor and lead the Foundation’s emergency response team. As a life-longer learner I thrive on new subjects and experiences. I am passionate about education and am thrilled to be able to assist students to achieve their dream for higher education.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in English from Eastern Connecticut State University. When not in the office, you can likely find me with a book, doing yoga, or hiking the beautiful trails in Connecticut.

I came to the Foundation in 2024 as a Communications Associate. I provide graphic design support for our marketing needs and social media channels along with supporting the overall administrative needs of the team.

Previously, I was the Social Media and Marketing Administrator for The Drama Studio, overseeing their social media, website, logo, and print work.

I earned my BA and associate degrees in Graphic Design from Springfield College. When I’m not in the office, I enjoy tending to my car and cooking savory meals.

I have been thrilled to serve as President and CEO of the Foundation since July 2017. I moved here with my family from Washington, D.C. to lead our commitment to dismantle structural racism, achieve equity and improve social and economic mobility.

I am animated by working alongside a diverse set of colleagues who bring passion, commitment, and expertise to our efforts to bring to life our mission as a Community Foundation. We are supported by our board, generous donors, and our nonprofit partners, without whom we could not do this work.

Prior to coming to the Foundation, I served in the Obama Administration as U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development and as Deputy Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs at the White House. Before joining the Administration, I was in my second term as Mayor of Youngstown, Ohio, where I was the first black, and youngest person to ever be elected Mayor.

I am currently Board Chair of the Council on Foundations, and I serve on other local quasi-public boards of organizations whose work or mission is aligned with that of the Foundation.

When I’m not at work, you might find me chasing (a thus far elusive) sub 80 round of golf or engaged in some activity with my wife and teenaged son, who is always full of ideas about the next big family adventure!

I am member of the Civic Engagement & Resident Engagement, and Thriving Neighborhoods outcomes teams, where I focus on building vibrant, civically engaged communities. My primary work focuses on a range of areas—from supporting the small business ecosystem and encouraging civic participation to advocating for neighborhood development and affordable housing.

Currently, I support initiatives such as Hartford’s Love Your Block program and help lead our Resident Engagement grantmaking efforts. Before coming to the Foundation, I worked at the Knight Foundation, supporting initiatives to grow creative entrepreneurial communities in Miami.

I attended Seton Hall University and earned a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Hunter College.

I’m a proud dog mom, and enjoy exploring the world with my husband, Roy.

I joined the Foundation in 2025 as a Grants Associate, working closely with Finance and Accounting teams to ensure that our grants are processed efficiently and reported accurately.

I am a proud UConn graduate with a degree in Global Health. I received the Drs. Nima Patel and Daniel McNaughton Scholarship four-year award.  I have worked as a student researcher at Yale Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluations and was an undergraduate assistant at UConn Sustainability Community Foods Systems Program. I believe in community engagement. I co-founded UConn’s Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Huskies for Human Rights, and UConn’s Black Muslim Association, and held leadership roles in each of these organizations. I continue to take courses that interest me and further my education.

As Senior Communications Officer, I manage the Foundation’s digital operations, including our websites, monthly newsletter, and other digital products. I’m experienced in video/audio production, including having produced an award-winning short documentary on the Hartford Riverfront and the Foundation’s podcast, Disinvested. For ten years, I’ve helped direct the Foundation’s annual donor celebration event. In 2025, I created the Hartford Art Tour app in collaboration with the City of Hartford.

Before joining the Foundation, I worked in digital operations for Tribune Media, including The Hartford Courant and Advocate newspapers, as well as a New York-based tech start-up.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in communications from Marist College and taught myself how to code.

Outside of work, I enjoy the outdoors, skiing, playing guitar, and cheering for the Buffalo Bills. Most of my free time is spent doing activities with my two children, including coaching my daughter’s robotics team.