Vision: A Metro Denver that is racially equitable in its leadership, prosperity, and culture.
Primary Role: To achieve our vision, we will be a proactive, collaborative, and resolute leader in reducing racial disparities.
President & CEO
Scholarships Officer
Director of Policy & Government Affairs
Director of Gifts & Grants
Chief of Staff
Senior Accountant
Treasury Manager
Director of Engaged Philanthropy
Director of Planned Giving
Gift Administration Associate
Policy and Government Affairs Specialist
Director of Scholarships
Chief Financial Officer
Bilingual Foundation Services Coordinator
Grants Administration Officer
Advisors Relations Officer
Assistant Controller
Bilingual Front Desk Coordinator
Administrative Coordinator
Senior Accountant
Senior Director of Scholarships
Communications Director
Senior Engaged Philanthropy Officer
Director of Human Resources
Vice President of Operational Excellence
Executive Assistant
Grants Administration Associate
Senior Vice President of Communications
Operational Excellence Analyst
Impact Executive Assistant
Senior Director of Policy, Partnerships & Learning
Special Funds Officer
Belonging Colorado Program Lead
Gifts & Grants Specialist
Senior Communications Officer
Accounting Specialist
Senior Director of Impact Investing
Senior Gifts & Grants Officer
Accountant
Capacity Building and Strengthening Neighborhoods Officer
Director of Engaged Learning
Investment Operations Analyst
Associate Scholarships Officer
Reisher Scholarship Officer
Foundation Services Specialist
Controller
Communications Coordinator
Philanthropic Investments Manager
Senior Manager, Events
Senior Engaged Philanthropy Officer
Engaged Philanthropy Officer
Executive Director of the BRIC Fund
Facility & Operations Manager
Major Gifts Officer
Sr. Director of Information Technology
Senior Special Funds Officer
Reisher Scholarship Officer
Chief Impact Officer
Javier Alberto Soto is president and CEO of The Denver Foundation. Since 2019, Javier led the development of a strategic framework, the mobilization of significant resources to respond to the COVID-19 crisis, and the foundation’s 100th anniversary.
Previously, Javier served as president and CEO of The Miami Foundation. Javier has been on several civic and corporate boards and was awarded Denver Business Journal’s Leader in Diversity Award in 2024. He has been a member of the Council on Foreign Relations since 2026 and the Colorado Forum since 2023. He was awarded the Denver Business Journal’s Leader in Diversity Award in 2024.
Javier has a B.A. in History and Political Science from Florida State University, a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, and an M.A. in Sociology from the University of Colorado Denver.
Come to Adelita to discuss scholarship grantmaking and the impact scholarships can make in students’ lives.
As a Scholarships Officer, Adelita serves as a bridge between students, donors, volunteers, and partner organizations, ensuring that scholarship funds are managed with excellence and create meaningful impact. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and a Master of Public Administration with a certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. With experience that spans philanthropy, higher education, nonprofit consulting, and direct service, she brings a broad and community-centered approach to her work.
Come to Naomi to discuss policy and advocacy engagement opportunities, her deep knowledge of the Metro Denver community, and the Civic Fabric Fund.
Naomi Amaha is an award-winning public affairs leader with a reputation for excellence in public policy and government relations. With more than a decade of experience in advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement, she advances systemic change on behalf of The Denver Foundation as Director of Policy and Government Affairs. Naomi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Communication, is a Certified Nonprofit Professional, has earned a Corporate Social Responsibility certification, and is currently pursuing a Certificate in Social Impact Strategy.
As the Director of Gifts & Grants, Erin leads the Gifts & Grants Team, focused on tracking and acknowledging the generous donations that come into the foundation and processing grants that have been recommended to ensure compliance, diligence, and philanthropic intent. Throughout her career in nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, and social responsibility, she has prioritized work for nonprofit excellence, racial equity, and more socially just communities.
Come to me to discuss governance clarity, board partnership, organizational alignment, executive operations, and the systems that help people and teams thrive.
Charmaine is the chief of staff who serves as the primary liaison to the Board of Trustees and leads executive-level planning and organizational alignment across departments. She supports governance, people strategy, and executive processes that strengthen organizational effectiveness. With a background in psychology, counseling, and business –and additional training in HR and employment law—she brings more than a decade of higher-education experience into philanthropy with a systems-minded, equity-centered approach to organizational leadership.
As Treasury Manager of The Denver Foundation, Courtney is responsible for operational oversight of the foundation’s investment and treasury accounts and processes. She supports the Accounting and Finance teams to ensure accurate financial transactions and reporting. Courtney graduated from the University of Missouri with a Master’s in Accountancy and is a Certified Public Accountant. She began her professional career in public accounting, where she gained a tremendous love for the work of nonprofits in the Denver Metro area.
Partner with Zach on agency funds that strengthen nonprofit sustainability and community impact.
Zach manages the Agency Fund Program, working with charitable organizations to establish and grow agency funds, and advising fundholders on strategy and fundraising alignment.
He also serves as a lead for the Youth Wellbeing and Housing priority areas within the Community Grants Program, supporting applicants through the process and stewarding grantees in those areas.
Zach holds a Master of Public Administration from Missouri State University.
Come to Wesley to learn more about ways to “give smarter” so that you can maximize your giving journey. This includes estate planning, complex assets, gift annuities, trusts, and more!
Wesley’s role as the director of planned giving is to support the entirety of donors’ philanthropic interests. His work ranges from the simple — such as bequests and beneficiary designations — to crafting bespoke solutions for donations such as real estate or business interests. Wesley enjoys working alongside you and your financial and legal counsel to make leaving your Denver Legacy as easy and efficient as possible.
Wesley holds a Bachelor of Music from Texas Tech University, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Charitable Financial Planning. He is currently pursuing his Master’s in Financial Planning from Texas Tech University.
Come to me for questions about your gift receipts or ending your recurring donations
Lichelle “Dedie” Cornett is the gift administration associate with the Finance, Infrastructure, and Technology Department at The Denver Foundation. Her major responsibilities are processing all incoming contributions to the foundation and managing the setup and updates of funds.
Come to me for policy and advocacy research, community and stakeholder engagement, and the Civic Fabric Fund.
As the Policy and Government Affairs Specialist, DaZha supports the organization with executing our policy framework and building relationships with stakeholders and legislators. She previously worked at a nonprofit promoting young adult workforce engagement and environmental conservation. DaZha holds a master’s in international Human Rights and a Certificate in Global Health Affairs from the Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver, and a bachelor’s in International Relations and German
Come to Jack to discuss scholarship grantmaking best practices and the impact scholarships can make in Colorado!
As Director of Scholarships, Jack focuses on the day-to-day operations of the statewide Reisher Scholars Program to ensure maximum impact and efficiency. He has worked at the crossroads of philanthropy and higher education for more than a decade and received his Master of Nonprofit Management from Regis University.
Margaret Danuser serves as the chief financial officer (CFO) for the foundation and oversees accounting/finance, grant administration, investments, impact investing, IT, and facilities functions in her role. She’s served in various CFO, public finance, and investment management positions throughout her career.
Come to Phuong for information about the DESCI Community Housing program and eligibility for competitive grants.
Phuong has over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, supporting grassroots organizations in strengthening their organizational infrastructure, service programs, and leadership voice. Phuong holds an MSW from Yeshiva University and an M.A. in Studio Art/Photography from New York University.
Come to me for anything related to the Professional Advisors Council, growing our professional advisor network, charitable giving products, and fun facts about the history of Denver.
Leading the Professional Advisors Council, Tanner brings over 15 years of customer service and retail banking experience and experience managing donor affinity groups, fundraising, and professional development.
Colorado-born and raised, Tanner moved to Denver in 2012 and resides in the Capitol Hill neighborhood with his partner Eric and their French Bulldog Olive.
Come to Valerie for anything about accounting operations, treasury, investment, compliance, and risk management!
As Assistant Controller of The Denver Foundation, Valerie manages the accounting operations function of the Finance & Accounting department. She is responsible for providing accounting services to the entire foundation. She served as Controller of a nonprofit health care organization prior to joining the foundation and has over 25 years of experience across diverse industries, including community foundation, health care, banking, and restaurant franchising. Valerie is a Certified Public Accountant and holds the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, graduating summa cum laude, and a Master of Science in Accounting.
Come to me for Cross-functional coordination, streamlined processes, and administrative support across the FIT team.
Maritza supports the Finance, Infrastructure, and Technology (FIT) team by managing logistics, coordinating departmental processes, and assisting the Chief Financial Officer and FIT managers. Acting as a bridge between departments, she ensures clear communication and seamless information flow. With a focus on precision, strong organizational skills, and a customer service mindset, Maritza helps the foundation maintain accurate records, smooth operations, and effective collaboration.
Priya brings extensive financial expertise to her role as Senior Accountant, supporting the organization’s investment operations through fund accounting, audit coordination, impact investment tracking, and comprehensive reporting. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Financial Management and a Master’s degree in Accounting.
Come to Sharon to discuss scholarship grantmaking, financial aid and scholarship best practices and leveraging scholarships for Colorado students!
As the Senior Director of Scholarships, Sharon’s focus is on the administration of funds that maximize students’ awards. She brings a variety of experiences into her work as she seeks to create solid and lasting relationships between donors, the community, and the students we support. She has worked in financial aid and scholarships for twenty-eight years in private and public four-year higher education and scholarship administration. Sharon holds a B.A. in English Literature, an MBA in Finance and Accounting, and an M.A. in Psychology.
Come to Collin if you are interested in opening a donor-advised fund, finding ways to support the Denver community, learning about the Community Grants Program process, or cooking tips and restaurant recommendations.
As a Senior Engaged Philanthropy Officer, Collin works directly with individuals, businesses, and nonprofits to create charitable funds and achieve impact in the community. Collin coordinates the education and transportation priority areas for the Community Grants Program.
Before coming to The Denver Foundation, Collin worked at various local nonprofits in water and environmental work, food justice and equity work, and international language and culture exchange. When he is not supporting donors and nonprofits, he likes to cook and eat; go outside hiking, camping, and biking; and play guitar.
Come to Rob for questions related to HR strategy, employee relations, and organizational support.
As Director of Human Resources, Rob leads HR strategy and oversees all aspects of the employee lifecycle, ensuring practices that support staff and organizational effectiveness. He brings leadership experience from the automotive manufacturing industry, where he managed operations and teams in South Carolina and Alabama.
Come to Sachi if you want to discuss data, system implementations, cross-departmental project management, or strategic operations.
As the Executive Assistant, Hannah supports the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Chief of Staff. She also supports operations for the Board of Trustees and a few of The Denver Foundation committees, including the Executive Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee. Hannah previously worked in membership recruitment for two different Girl Scout councils. Born and raised in California, Hannah moved to Colorado in 2023 with her husband and two cats, later growing her family by adopting a dog.
Hannah enjoys inside, cozy hobbies, but loves watching the seasons change from the comfort of her home.
Come to Anne for assistance with grants processing, especially from donor-advised funds.
Anne Kerwin is happy to help donors generously give to nonprofit organizations through their donor-advised funds.
Come to Abigail for anything about communications at The Denver Foundation, including media questions or requesting someone for a speech.
As Senior Vice President of Communications, Abigail helps the organization use the power of communications to positively impact our community. She is a motivated strategic thinker and team leader who can bring innovative approaches to the work and distill complex ideas into compelling communications. Abigail has worked in communications for 20 years as a producer with CNN, as communications director for the Colorado State Senate, and as a communications and marketing director at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
As the Operational Excellence Analyst, Damir spends his days asking, “How can we make this better?” With years of experience in design, data, and user-centric product management, Damir believes that with the right balance of data and empathy, we can build systems that serve our work, our team, and most importantly, our community.
As the Impact Executive Assistant, Jennifer supports the Chief Impact Officer (CIO) and three Senior Impact Directors. She also supports two of the foundation’s committees: the Advisory Committee for Community Impact (ACCI) and the Impact Committee. Additionally, she coordinates monthly gatherings in support of community members working in the Impact Investing space.
Jennifer is an experienced administrative support professional and graphic designer. With more than a decade in the nonprofit sector, she is passionate about doing work that adds value to the community.
Come to Dr. Lopez to discuss local, state, and national partnerships, her deep knowledge of strategic philanthropy, and learn more about the foundation’s statewide footprint through grantmaking and scholarships.
As the Senior Director of Policy, Partnerships & Learning, Dr. Janet Lopez seeks to deepen relationships with nonprofit leaders, donors, and policymakers throughout Metro Denver and Colorado to increase the foundation’s impact on critical needs and solutions to those needs. Dr. Lopez is a seasoned philanthropic leader with experience managing complex grantmaking portfolios and driving a policy agenda focused on improving the public good through systematic change.
Her community involvement has included serving as a board member on many local and national boards, including currently serving on the national policy advisory committee of the Council on Foundations and the Board Chair of Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado.
Dr. Lopez received her Ph.D. in Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Come to Jasmine to talk about giving circles, matching your nonprofit with a grant opportunity, the type of charitable fund that could work for you, or volunteering as a grant reader.
As a Special Funds Officer, Jasmine serves as a frontline community engagement specialist, working with donors and nonprofits to achieve annual grantmaking goals that optimize community impact. She has 15+ years of experience working in both nonprofit and academic leadership, grants, fundraising, stewardship, board development, and events. Jasmine holds a B.A. in Philosophy and Psychology and an M.A. in Women’s and Gender Studies.
Come to Erika to discuss Belonging Colorado, a new initiative designed to foster greater connection and bridge differences across the state.
As the Program Lead, Erika guides the statewide strategy and partnerships to build a more inclusive and connected Colorado. With more than a decade of experience working alongside diverse communities, she brings deep expertise in community engagement, grantmaking, and community-centered program design. She is committed to creating environments where everyone is seen, valued, and supported.
Come to Lindsay for guidance on grant and scholarship processes, including ACH enrollment.
As the Gifts and Grants Specialist at The Denver Foundation, Lindsay supports the FIT team by helping grantees navigate ACH enrollment, grant and scholarship processing, and evolving departmental processes. She brings a thoughtful, detail‑oriented approach to her work, with a strong focus on creating clear, efficient systems that support organizational success. Lindsay is especially interested in process improvement, strengthening the organization’s security posture, and finding ways to simplify complex workflows for grantees, donors, and colleagues alike.
As the Senior Communications Officer, Lindsay oversees the development and implementation of the content plan at The Denver Foundation. Her professional experience includes content strategy, storytelling, brand management, marketing analytics, and digital marketing. Throughout her career, she has led marketing campaigns for organizations in the nonprofit and private sectors, including USA Swimming and Trimble Geospatial. She also has a background in international development working in Nicaragua with the Peace Corps. Lindsay is passionate about creating communication strategies that elevate diverse perspectives, build deeper connections with audiences, and enhance clarity and accessibility.
When not working, you can find Lindsay running, tending to her garden, or escaping to the mountains to go skiing, camping, or mountain biking.
As the Accounting Specialist, Chelsea plays a pivotal role in issuing grants and scholarships and processing invoice payments. She provides administrative and general support across the Finance and Accounting team.
Ben Perry leads the foundation’s efforts to engage professional advisors and their clients to create meaningful, impactful philanthropy that benefits our community. Joining the foundation in 2019, Ben brings over 20 years of experience in wealth and fiduciary management, major and planned giving, and impact investing, and he is passionate about helping donors create philanthropic legacies that can span generations.
Originally from Philadelphia, Ben holds a B.S. from Cornell University and an M.B.A. from Drexel University and is a candidate for the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) designation. Ben and his wife, Ava Lala, live in Golden with their young daughter, Armaity.
As Senior Gifts & Grants Officer, Dana has a deep understanding of our accounting and data management systems and collaborates across multiple departments and constituencies to support the administration, execution, and integrity of the foundation’s overall gifts and grants processes. Dana has an M.A. in International Affairs and an M.A. in Natural Resources and Sustainable Development from American University and a UN-affiliated University in Costa Rica.
Come to David to discuss civic engagement, nonprofit learning, community organizing, policy, and worker-owned co-ops, his deep knowledge of Metro Denver’s community leaders, and to find out what community groups are doing in Metro Denver!
David Portillo is the Capacity Building and Strengthening Neighborhoods officer, and a nonprofit leader in asset-based community development (ABCD) and community organizing. With more than three decades of experience in education, social change work, nonprofit leadership, and public policy, he advances systemic change. David holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, a Master’s in writing, and various certificates in ABCD, community organizing, and secondary school teaching.
As the Director of Engaged Learning, Kyle leads strategic learning and evaluation activities, rooted in the foundation’s learning framework. He previously held similar roles for a national association of grantmakers seeking to center nonprofits and community in their work. He holds a Master of Public Affairs in nonprofit management and a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University.
Come to me for questions about applying to one of our many scholarship opportunities, starting a new scholarship fund, or if you are interested in volunteering to read scholarship applications.
As an Associate Scholarships Officer, Melissa helps lower barriers to financial support for students pursuing higher education through the simplification of scholarship applications and hands-on guidance through our application process. With over 5 years of experience working in philanthropy, they are always looking for new ways to make philanthropy accessible to all. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Business Administration, with focuses in Gender and Identities and Marketing from Saint Martin’s University.
Josh joined The Denver Foundation after nearly a decade of working in higher education. As the Reisher Scholarship Officer, Josh believes in the impact of scholarships! He has served as a conduit to uplift and empower students to degree completion. Josh holds a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication.
He is dedicated to improving access to scholarships and highlighting the interconnected role we all play in student success. Josh is pivotal in the expansion of the Reisher Scholars Program among several statewide partner institutions. When not working, Josh enjoys hearing others’ stories, hiking, and watching movies.
Come to me for portal assistance, general operational support, and to discuss our front-line help team.
As the Foundation Services Specialist, Taeler improves processes, coordinates projects, and provides office and administrative support for the Operational Excellence Team. She also leads the front-line help team, ensuring that everyone the foundation serves is valued and heard.
With a degree in Art History and a background in the art world, Taeler brings years of experience in visitor services, administrative operations, and data management to the foundation.
As Controller of The Denver Foundation, Robin is responsible for overseeing financial, investment, and fund management activities, complex gift and grant transactions, integrity of financial reporting, and preparation of annual audits. Robin brings experience in multiple financial disciplines from both the corporate and nonprofit sectors.
Most recently, Sasman served as VP and CFO of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, where she was responsible for the organization’s financial operations. She is a native of Colorado and graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Robin holds BS degrees in Business and Journalism, a Masters in Finance, and is a Certified Management Accountant.
As the Bilingual Communications Coordinator, Gabriela Severino plays a vital support role in achieving the communications goals and objectives of The Denver Foundation. With a degree in Communication and Advertising, she believes in the importance of building relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and cultures through powerful communication strategies.
When not working, Gabriela is an avid reader, a self-published author, an appreciator of a good cup of coffee, and a good stroll in the park!
Come to Russ to discuss how the foundation leverages its resources in the Impact Investing space.
Russ Shaw is a seasoned philanthropic professional with over 25 years of industry experience in wealth and fiduciary management, planned, major, and annual giving, campaign management, special events, organizational leadership, and community board membership. He spent a decade facilitating the financial management curriculum for the Regis MNM program and serves as a mentor to rising philanthropic leaders.
He earned a BBA in Finance, a Master’s in Nonprofit Management, and held the Chartered Advisory in Philanthropy (CAP®) designation.
Trenyese is a highly experienced events professional with a B.A. in Communication from the University of West Florida and a portfolio that includes renowned large-scale events such as The Department of Defense Warrior Games Challenge, Taste of Colorado 2021, 9NEWS Parade of Lights, and Luxury Travel Experiences, among others. Trenyese has immersed herself in the Denver community, understanding its unique dynamics and needs.
Come to Andrea if you are opening a Donor-Advised Fund, researching organizations to support through your Donor-Advised Fund, learning about the Community Grants Program process, and determining if your organization aligns with the priority areas in The Denver Foundation’s strategic framework.
Andrea comes to The Denver Foundation with a breadth of nonprofit knowledge, having worked at several higher education institutions and community organizations. In her Senior Engaged Philanthropy Officer role, she uses that knowledge to bring individuals, businesses, and nonprofits together to maximize their impact in the community. She has her Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Denver and her undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond.
LaDawn’s 25+ years of work and accomplishments are in the DNA of the modern Denver Foundation. As Executive Director for the Black Resilience in Colorado (BRIC) Fund, she works collaboratively with BRIC’s Advisory Board to support nonprofit organizations that are led by and serve Black communities. LaDawn is an influencer, innovator, and coalition builder. She works to strengthen and expand the pipeline of BIPOC leadership, address social Injustice, and create racially equitable communities. She uses her expertise in community engagement and inclusive emerging leadership practices in all her internal and external work.
Carolyn is the facility & operations manager at Casa Grande, The Denver Foundation’s home. She manages building maintenance, facility needs assessments, safety compliance, capital project planning, and interdepartmental coordination. She uses a proactive maintenance strategy, identifying and resolving issues before they lead to downtime.
Come to Claire to learn how your investment in The Denver Foundation works to strengthen our community for a stronger, more equitable future and to understand why your gift matters!
As Major Gift Officer for The Denver Foundation, Claire works to offer personalized support to make each donor’s philanthropic goals a reality. With more than a decade of experience in nonprofit fundraising in the Denver Metro area, Claire’s goal is to enhance the community’s philanthropic landscape by inviting all to celebrate in the joy of giving by leaving a lasting legacy to the organizations they love most.
Claire holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.
As Senior Director of Information Technology, Brian works to improve the efficiency and scalability of business processes at the foundation. His mission is to maximize the effectiveness of our people by leveraging the right technology. He has extensive experience in IT leadership, technical staff development, and business leadership in for-profit and not-for-profit organizations.
Come to me for questions about giving circles (Colorado AAPI, Environmental Affinity Group, March On!, The Giving Forward Project) or special funds (Denver Immigrant Legal Services Fund, The Lowe Fund, The Greenwood Fund, Renewable Energy Trust)
As Senior Special Funds Officer, Julie works with donor-advised fundholders to provide personalized support and manages special interest funds that address critical community needs. Julie brings 15 years of experience with nonprofits and 23 years with foundations at both the national and local levels to address social justice and equity issues.
Julie has also worked as a consultant building nonprofit capacity and as a philanthropic advisor helping individuals develop their philanthropic interests and priorities. Julie’s experience gives her a unique ability to bridge funder and donor interests with high-quality nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of relationships and mutuality.
Come to Natalie to discuss the Reisher Scholarship Program in Colorado, general scholarships, the higher education landscape, and beautiful places to visit in Colorado!
Natalie Waddington earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Montana State University and her Master of Arts in English from the University of Colorado Denver. She taught composition courses at CU Denver, worked as an admissions counselor at Colorado School of Mines, and now helps steward the Reisher Scholarship Program at The Denver Foundation. She is passionate about making higher education accessible and affordable to all students in Colorado—the state she loves most.
Come to Dace to discuss leadership of the Impact Group, which includes donor services, all grantmaking, impact investing, professional advisors, scholarships, public policy, and evaluation and learning. Dace can also talk with you about the foundation’s community priorities, the business model, the organizational structure, and our racial equity work.
Dace West is the chief impact officer at The Denver Foundation. In her role, she serves as senior leadership and oversees the Impact Group, which brings together all the foundation’s philanthropic activities from work with donors to nonprofit grantmaking. Her portfolio also includes the foundation’s community leadership efforts, serving as a thought partner, engaging in public policy, and supporting evaluation and research. Prior to her work at the foundation, Dace held several leadership positions in the nonprofit and public sectors, working on social issues across the Denver Metro area.
1009 Grant Street
Denver, Colorado 80203
303.300.1790
information@denverfoundation.org
EIN: 84-6048381 | 501(c)(3)
