Introduction
I am the Vice President of Philanthropy at Pinellas Community Foundation, where I work with donors and nonprofits to turn generosity into lasting impact. I help individuals and families establish charitable funds, support nonprofits with reserve and endowment investments, and guide donors who want to include charitable giving in their wills or trusts. After more than 20 years working in the nonprofit sector, including roles as both a development director and executive director, one of the things I enjoy most about my work is connecting generous people with the organizations doing meaningful work across Pinellas County. I was born and raised in Dunedin, am a fourth generation Floridian, and a mom of two who loves being outdoors. I’m also a lifelong math and science nerd with a bachelor’s degree in theoretical mathematics and physics, which means I bring both analytical thinking and heart to my work in philanthropy.
Years in St. Pete
I’m a Dunedin native and have lived in Pinellas County for most of my life.
Organizations involved in
I am an alumna of Leadership Pinellas and a sustainer and former board member of the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin. I have also served on the board of the Florida Wildlife Corridor and chair Field Day at my children’s school. Through my work at Pinellas Community Foundation, I collaborate with nonprofit organizations across Pinellas County, providing strategic planning support, fundraising guidance, and connections to philanthropic resources. I have a particular interest in advising nonprofit leaders on strategy, fundraising, and long-term organizational sustainability.
What gets you out of bed every day?
Quite literally, my new puppy gets me out of bed every morning! But beyond that, I feel incredibly lucky to be part of an organization that brings people together to solve community challenges. Seeing donors, nonprofit leaders and community partners collaborate to make things better is truly inspiring. We live in such a generous place, filled with people who genuinely care about their neighbors, and getting to play a small role in helping those connections happen keeps me motivated every day.
Why St. Pete?
We live in paradise. On any given weekend we can head to the beach, float in a nearby spring, or spend time outside enjoying the water and sunshine. St. Pete is also incredibly rich in art and culture. I love visiting museums, seeing public art throughout the city, walking the pier and listening to live music. What really makes this area special to me, though, is the people. The nonprofits, civic leaders and community members here are genuinely willing to work together to solve problems and support each other. That spirit of collaboration is rare, and it makes this community a really special place to live and work.
What is one habit that you keep?
Spending time outside every day. Getting back to nature has a way of resetting your perspective and reminding you what really matters. Whether it’s noticing the birds, flowers, a beautiful sunset or even a rainbow after a storm, we are surrounded by incredible wildlife and natural beauty here. Taking time to step outside, breathe fresh air and appreciate it helps me stay grounded and grateful.
Who are some people that influence you?
I’ve been fortunate to learn from several incredible mentors throughout my life and career. Holly Duncan had a big influence on me early in my fundraising journey. Through classes she taught for the Junior League, she helped shape how I think about philanthropy and the strategy behind effective fundraising. My mom also had a huge impact on me by introducing me to philanthropy and the importance of helping others when I was very young. Nancy Ridenour and Martha Thorn are two other mentors who influenced me in different ways. Nancy’s resilience and leadership have always inspired me, while Martha taught me a great deal about marketing, negotiation and the importance of a strong work ethic. I’m also inspired by people like Jane Goodall, whose lifelong commitment to protecting wildlife and educating others shows how one person’s passion and persistence can create lasting change.
What is one piece of insight - a book, methodology, practice - that you would share with our readers?
One insight that has stayed with me over the years is the importance of authenticity in relationships. Whether with family, friends, colleagues, or people in the community, people can quickly sense when someone is being genuine. The strongest relationships are built on trust, honesty and showing up as your true self. When people feel that authenticity, it creates deeper connections, stronger collaboration, and a greater sense of community, and that’s often where the most meaningful impact begins.
What is one thing you wish you knew about your work 3 years ago?
One thing I wish I had understood earlier is the true power of community foundations. They play a unique role in bringing together donors, nonprofits and community leaders to address important issues in thoughtful and strategic ways. Being able to connect generous people with organizations doing meaningful work and help them create lasting impact has given me a whole new appreciation for what collaborative philanthropy can accomplish.
What’s next?
Helping more people understand the powerful role a community foundation can play in their philanthropy. Many donors don’t realize the different ways they can give back, whether through donor-advised funds, planned giving, or helping nonprofits strengthen their financial sustainability through fund investment. I’m excited to continue connecting generous people with meaningful opportunities to make an impact and helping nonprofits build long-term resources so they can serve our community for generations to come.