I have more than 25 years’ experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sector. I have been on both sides of the sector in my career, giving me special insight into how it all works together (or sometimes, not).I seek to continue the work in making philanthropy a true part of the solution: trust-based grant making, eliminating the power imbalance between funders and nonprofits, correcting inequitable practices, getting more money into the hands of the community, and considering “spending out” as a philanthropic option to increase impact.I also have 20 years of grant writing experience, and I enjoy teaching others the “secrets” I have gained about writing grant proposals. I am available for group trainings (webinars or in-person), as well as mentoring new grant writers one-on-one.I am versed in a wide variety of issue areas, and am particularly passionate about democracy and civil rights, the arts, affordable housing, health equity, and our environment. I have been a Chicagoan for 20+ years and am a life-long Illinoisian with a strong knowledge of the state. I have also lived in Indiana and Alabama and have traveled widely. Honors: 2023 Volunteer of the Year for Chicago Women in Philanthropy’s Women’s Leadership and Mentorship Program. In 2008, I wrote the proposal that netted Project Exploration the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring from the National Science Foundation and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Appreciation of Excellence certificate from the Pierce Family Foundation in 2012. Valedictorian and magna cum laude graduate.