Saundra Thomas Email & Phone Number

United States

SPT Consults formulates strategic plans, cultivates media relations, and guides board development to help non-profits excel in achieving mission. Advocates training and career succession to boost professional and personal goal achievement.SPT Consults offers the following expertise in these key areas:Individual Career CoachingExecutive Director CoachingStrategic Planning and Team BuildingCommunity OutreachPublic Speaking

Portland, Maine Area

As the Founding Chair of the Governance Committee and Board Secretary of Indigo Arts Alliance, a Maine-based nonprofit that cultivates the artistic development of people of African descent, I crafted the organization’s first board handbook, led the committee in developing the fledgling organization’s policy and addressing governance matters, strategic planning and board development. I currently serve on the host committee for upcoming fundraisers and cultivation events.

Scope of the work included direct support to OHNY staff in all organizational activities including producing and delivering Open House Weekend; liaison with OHNY board of directors to align individuals with mission, program and goals; research and cultivate new strategic partnerships and revenue streams.● Lead OHNY 3.0 strategic plan and retreat to support equity, access, diversity, inclusion and social justice mission. Cultivate civic, cultural, educational and business partners aligned with OHNY mission and programs. Strategize to position OHNY for strength and growth during the Covid-19 transition and beyond.

Bronx, New York

Analyze and review proposals generated by consulting team, recommend and initiate appropriate solutions to problems, and make value-added decisions to guide continued success of program. Leverage exceptional communication strength to liaise between clients and consultancy team.Direct National Working Group of 12 dynamic executives from Fortune 500 companies, committed to championing Diverse by Design Program goals and brand; collaborated with team to create action plan aligned with mission and vision.

As Station Ambassador and Community Outreach Liaison, contributed in-kind donations through on-air talent and station presence at cause-related events. Led community engagement initiatives as Keynote, Master of Ceremonies, Panelist, and Moderator at non-profit events. • Planned, managed, and presented public town hall meetings on topical issues throughout tristate region for 2K+ attendees. • Supervised station production team to deliver 100+ public service announcements to promote non-profit missions.• Developed and oversaw station’s philanthropy; funded $10+M to 200+ community-based organizations and educational institutions.• As Youth Development and Internship Programs Director, designed partnerships with community organizations; placed and mentored 2500+ interns.

I was attracted to Council for Unity’s powerful mission of promoting family unity, self-esteem, empowerment, tolerance and achievement in schools and communities. Shortly after joining the board I was elected board chair.I led its 5-year strategic planning, leveraged multi-year support from WABC-TV, which included charitable contributions, producing public service announcements and securing MCs for CFU galas. In order to augment and create diverse revenue streams, I worked in partnership with our Advisory Committee to broker multiple grants including The Pinkerton Foundation and Santander Bank. Additionally, I co-chaired and hosted the 2018 gala which generated $130k. I professionalized the long-time staff, implemented accountability measures and executed restructuring of the organization, which included developing goals, expectations and metrics for follow through. This resulted in an evaluative staff process that improved productivity and output in internal and external communication.

Brooklyn, New York

I was board chair at Dancewave, a Brooklyn-based nonprofit that provides access to community dance experience, at a critical time in its history. It was transitioning from a founding board to a working board. I led the charge to broaden Dancewave’s exposure by facilitating a rigorous board structure and advancement, branding and design process. Orchestrated by my leadership and connections, I leveraged funds towards a successful $5.2m Capital Campaign that has resulted in a new DW studio opened in 2019. I remain a consultant to the ED and board on their succession planning process.

Greater New York City Area

As the founding board chair of Global Action Project, a youth media social justice non-profit now in its 28th year, I oversaw the 501(c) process, doubled the board size and revenue streams by tapping my connections and securing charitable contributions from corporations including Disney/ABC and the Rockefeller Brothers Fund. As a media maker and youth development advocate I also enjoyed mentoring the emerging youth media makers. Toward the end of my 12-year tenure, I spearheaded the executive director succession process, thereby securing the legacy of GAP’s founders.

Ba, Journalism

Activities and Societies: Sports Editor, Douglass Caellian; Intramural Softball, Volleyball and Basketball.

Ma, Media Studies

Honorary Doctorate Of Humane Letters

This recognition came as a result of my work with the St. Francis College Young Journalist in Training Program, an initiative I co-founded.