In the dynamic and impactful nonprofit sector of the DC–VA–MD–WV Metropolitan Statistical Area, certain individuals stand out for their extraordinary leadership and contributions. These influencers are at the forefront of addressing critical social issues, fostering community development, and driving systemic change. At NonProfits.Club, we are dedicated to recognizing and celebrating these remarkable leaders. To compile this list of the top 50 nonprofit influencers in the region, our team used the following rigorous criteria:
- Impact and Innovation: Evaluating the tangible outcomes and innovative approaches these leaders have brought to their fields.
- Leadership and Advocacy: Assessing their ability to inspire, mobilize others, and advocate for systemic change.
- Sustainability and Scalability: Considering the sustainability of their initiatives and their potential for scaling impact.
- Recognition and Awards: Taking into account accolades and acknowledgments received from peers and reputable organizations.
This curated list showcases individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the profound impact they have on the DC–VA–MD–WV community.
Anne Kress – President of Northern Virginia Community College
Anne Kress is the President of Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), the largest public educational institution in Virginia. She assumed the role in January 2020, bringing over 30 years of experience in community college leadership. Previously, she served as the President of Monroe Community College in Rochester, New York. Anne has been recognized for her commitment to student success, workforce development, and community partnerships, making significant strides in enhancing educational opportunities and addressing regional workforce challenges.
Adam Weinger – Founder and President of Double the Donation
Adam Weinger is the Founder and President of Double the Donation, a leading provider of tools to help nonprofits increase fundraising through corporate matching gift and volunteer grant programs. Since founding the company in 2010, Adam has helped numerous organizations maximize their fundraising potential by leveraging corporate philanthropy. His work has significantly contributed to the nonprofit sector by providing innovative solutions to increase donor engagement and revenue.
Claire Axelrad – Founder of Clairification
Claire Axelrad is the Founder of Clairification, a fundraising training and coaching business. With over 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Claire has served in leadership roles at various organizations, including the San Francisco Food Bank and Jewish Family and Children’s Services. She is recognized as an “Outstanding Fundraising Professional” by the Association of Fundraising Professionals and is known for her expertise in major gifts, legacy fundraising, and donor engagement. Claire’s blog and online courses provide valuable resources for nonprofit professionals.
Dennis Fischman – Nonprofit communications consultant
Dennis Fischman is a nonprofit communications consultant and the Chief Communicator at Communicate! Consulting. He specializes in helping nonprofits build loyal relationships with their supporters through effective communication strategies. Dennis has extensive experience in nonprofit marketing and fundraising, offering practical advice and tools to enhance donor engagement and organizational storytelling.
Sean Hale – Nonprofit consultant and strategist
Sean Hale is a nonprofit consultant and strategist with expertise in financial management and organizational development. He has over 20 years of experience helping nonprofits build strong back-office operations, optimize financial processes, and improve overall efficiency. Sean’s work focuses on ensuring that nonprofits have the robust infrastructure needed to support their missions and achieve long-term sustainability.
Rosie Allen-Herring – President and CEO of United Way of the National Capital Area
Rosie Allen-Herring is the President and CEO of United Way of the National Capital Area. Under her leadership, the organization has focused on addressing critical community issues such as education, financial stability, and health. Rosie has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and partnerships that enhance the impact of United Way’s programs, benefiting thousands of individuals and families in the region.
Tonia Wellons – President and CEO of Greater Washington Community Foundation
Tonia Wellons is the President and CEO of the Greater Washington Community Foundation. She has a strong background in philanthropy and community development, having previously served in leadership roles at the Peace Corps and the World Bank. Tonia’s work at the Community Foundation focuses on mobilizing resources and fostering collaborations to address pressing social issues and promote equity in the Greater Washington area.
Glen O’Gilvie – CEO of Center for Nonprofit Advancement
Glen O’Gilvie is the CEO of the Center for Nonprofit Advancement, an organization that supports and strengthens nonprofits in the Washington, DC area. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Glen has led efforts to provide capacity-building services, advocacy, and networking opportunities for local nonprofits. His leadership has been pivotal in enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of nonprofit organizations in the region.
Kelly Brinkley – COO of United Way of the National Capital Area
Kelly Brinkley is the Chief Operating Officer of United Way of the National Capital Area. She oversees the organization’s operations, ensuring the effective implementation of programs and initiatives that support community well-being. Kelly’s work focuses on operational excellence, strategic planning, and fostering partnerships that enhance United Way’s impact in the community.
Chuck Bean – Executive Director of Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
Chuck Bean is the Executive Director of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG). He leads the regional organization in addressing key issues such as transportation, environmental sustainability, and public safety. Under his leadership, COG has facilitated collaboration among local governments and stakeholders to develop and implement solutions that improve the quality of life in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.
David Bowers – Vice President and Mid-Atlantic Market Leader at Enterprise Community Partners
David Bowers is the Vice President and Mid-Atlantic Market Leader at Enterprise Community Partners. He is a prominent advocate for affordable housing and community development, leading efforts to create and preserve affordable housing in the region. David’s work includes fostering partnerships, securing funding, and implementing innovative solutions to address housing challenges and promote equitable development.
Nicky Goren – President and CEO of Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer Foundation
Nicky Goren is the President and CEO of the Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer Foundation. Appointed in 2014, Nicky has led the foundation in its mission to build an equitable Greater Washington community. Under her leadership, the foundation has focused on addressing systemic racial inequity and economic injustice, investing in solutions that improve housing, education, employment, and asset-building. Nicky has been instrumental in evolving the foundation’s strategies and growing partnerships to tackle root causes of inequality.
Yanique Redwood – President and CEO of Consumer Health Foundation
Dr. Yanique Redwood is the President and CEO of the Consumer Health Foundation. With a doctorate in Health Behavior and Health Education, she has led the foundation in promoting health equity and social justice. Under her leadership, the foundation received the 2016 NCRP Impact Award and shifted its focus from health to racial equity, establishing new program areas such as community power, reparations, and economic justice. Yanique is also recognized for her work in antiracism and has published extensively on the role of racism in health outcomes.
Tamara Smith – President and CEO of DC Primary Care Association
Tamara Smith is the President and CEO of the DC Primary Care Association (DCPCA). With over 37 years of experience in healthcare, Tamara has been a goal-driven, results-oriented executive. She has led DCPCA in supporting community health centers, enhancing access to quality healthcare for underserved populations in Washington, DC. Her leadership has been pivotal in advancing the organization’s mission and improving community health outcomes.
Ed Lazere – Executive Director of DC Fiscal Policy Institute
Ed Lazere is the Founder and former Executive Director of the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (DCFPI). Under his leadership, DCFPI became a primary source of independent information on the DC budget and one of the most influential policy organizations in the region. Ed has been a prominent advocate for economic and racial justice, leading budget and policy campaigns to advance these causes. He currently serves as the Director of Legislative Advocacy at United Planning Organization (UPO).
Kimberly Perry – Executive Director of DC Action for Children
Kimberly Perry is the Executive Director of DC Action for Children. With over 20 years of experience as an advocate for children and families, Kimberly has a proven record of success in nonprofit management and policy advocacy. She has led DC Action in its efforts to improve the well-being of children in Washington, DC, focusing on policy solutions that promote equity and opportunity for all children.
George Jones – CEO of Bread for the City
George Jones is the CEO of Bread for the City, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive services to low-income residents of Washington, DC. Under his leadership, Bread for the City has expanded its programs to include food, clothing, medical care, legal and social services. George has been recognized for his commitment to social justice and his efforts to address poverty and inequality in the community.
Maria Gomez – Founder and CEO of Mary’s Center
Maria Gomez is the Founder and CEO of Mary’s Center, a community health center that provides healthcare, education, and social services to underserved populations in the Washington, DC area. Since founding the center in 1988, Maria has grown it into a nationally recognized model of integrated care. Her leadership has been instrumental in improving health outcomes and empowering communities through comprehensive support services.
Kelly Sweeney McShane – President and CEO of Community of Hope
Kelly Sweeney McShane is the President and CEO of Community of Hope, a nonprofit organization that provides housing, healthcare, and supportive services to homeless and low-income families in Washington, DC. Under her leadership, Community of Hope has expanded its services and increased its impact, helping families achieve stability and self-sufficiency. Kelly’s work has been recognized for its innovation and effectiveness in addressing homelessness and poverty.
Lecester Johnson – CEO of Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School
Lecester Johnson is the CEO of Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School, an organization that provides adult education and workforce development programs in Washington, DC. Under her leadership, Academy of Hope has expanded its programs and improved outcomes for adult learners, helping them achieve their educational and career goals. Lecester is known for her commitment to adult education and her efforts to create opportunities for lifelong learning.
Gustavo Torres – Executive Director of CASA
Gustavo Torres is the Executive Director of CASA, an organization that advocates for immigrant and Latino communities in the Washington, DC area. Under his leadership, CASA has grown into a powerful force for social justice, providing services and advocacy to improve the lives of immigrants. Gustavo’s work has been instrumental in advancing immigrant rights and promoting equity and inclusion in the community.
Courtney Reeve – Executive Director of Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington
Courtney Reeve is the Executive Director of the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington. She has been recognized for her leadership and received the ‘Emerging Leader Award’ for her work in the nonprofit sector. Courtney’s efforts focus on connecting donors with high-impact, community-based nonprofits, enhancing the visibility and support for these organizations in the Greater Washington area.
Rosemary Ndubuizu – Assistant Professor at Georgetown University, housing justice advocate
Rosemary Ndubuizu is an Assistant Professor of African American Studies at Georgetown University and a dedicated housing justice advocate. Her research focuses on housing policies and advocacy, examining the intersections of race, gender, and economic inequality. Rosemary’s work contributes to the understanding of housing justice and informs policy changes aimed at improving housing conditions for marginalized communities.
Monica Harrell – President and CEO of Leadership Greater Washington
Monica Harrell is the President and CEO of Leadership Greater Washington, an organization dedicated to fostering regional leadership and collaboration. Under her leadership, the organization has strengthened its programs and expanded its impact, bringing together leaders from various sectors to address critical issues facing the Washington, DC metropolitan area.
Christy Respress – Executive Director of Pathways to Housing DC
Christy Respress is the Executive Director of Pathways to Housing DC, an organization that provides housing and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Christy has been instrumental in implementing the Housing First model, which prioritizes providing permanent housing as a foundation for recovery and stability. Her leadership has significantly contributed to reducing homelessness in the DC area.
Kim Jones – Executive Director of Nonprofit Village
Kim Jones is the Executive Director of Nonprofit Village, a Montgomery County-based organization that provides shared office space and support services to nonprofits. Under her leadership, Nonprofit Village has grown and enhanced its capacity-building programs, helping local nonprofits to thrive and better serve their communities. Kim’s work focuses on fostering collaboration and providing resources to strengthen the nonprofit sector.
Melissa Bondi – State and Local Policy Director at Enterprise Community Partners
Melissa Bondi is the State and Local Policy Director at Enterprise Community Partners. With over 20 years of experience as a policy expert and community leader, Melissa has been influential in advancing affordable housing and community development policies. Her work involves strategic advocacy and partnership-building to create equitable and sustainable communities.
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz – Executive Director of Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz is the Executive Director of the Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County. She has a strong background in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership, providing guidance and support to initiatives that empower women and girls. Buffy’s work focuses on fostering a culture of giving and leveraging collective resources to address community needs.
Lindsey Buss – Senior Director of Community Engagement at World Bank Group
Lindsey Buss is the Senior Director of Community Engagement at the World Bank Group. With a diverse background as a volunteer, attorney, and nonprofit leader, Lindsey leads the World Bank’s efforts to engage with local communities and support social development initiatives. His work aims to build stronger, more resilient communities through strategic partnerships and outreach.
Diana Peacock – Executive Director of Nonprofit Montgomery
Diana Peacock is the Executive Director of Nonprofit Montgomery, an organization that supports and strengthens nonprofits in Montgomery County. Known for her leadership, fundraising, and strategic planning skills, Diana has been instrumental in enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of local nonprofits. Her work focuses on fostering collaboration and providing resources to help nonprofits achieve their missions.
Heather Iliff – President and CEO of Maryland Nonprofits
Heather Iliff is the President and CEO of Maryland Nonprofits, where she has served since 2014. Under her leadership, Maryland Nonprofits has expanded its services and advocacy efforts, supporting the growth and sustainability of nonprofit organizations across the state. Heather’s work focuses on promoting best practices, enhancing organizational capacity, and advocating for policies that benefit the nonprofit sector.
Jennifer Lockwood-Shabat – President and CEO of Washington Area Women’s Foundation
Jennifer Lockwood-Shabat is a social justice advocate with 25 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. As President and CEO of Washington Area Women’s Foundation, she has focused on advancing gender, economic, and racial equity. Her work has been instrumental in supporting women and girls in the Washington DC area through grantmaking, advocacy, and community engagement.
Gretchen Van der Veer – CEO of Fair Chance
Dr. Gretchen Van der Veer is the CEO of Fair Chance, bringing over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Under her leadership, Fair Chance has strengthened its mission of supporting and empowering community-based nonprofits. Her work has focused on capacity building and creating sustainable impact for organizations serving children and youth in economically disadvantaged communities.
Danielle Reyes – Executive Director of Crimsonbridge Foundation
Danielle Reyes is the Executive Director of the Crimsonbridge Foundation. She has served on various nonprofit boards, including roles as co-chair of development committees and member of governance and justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion committees. Her leadership has been crucial in guiding the foundation’s philanthropic efforts and promoting equity in the nonprofit sector.
Terri Lee Freeman – President of National Civil Rights Museum
Terri Lee Freeman served as the President of the National Civil Rights Museum from 2014 to 2021. During her tenure, she significantly increased museum attendance and launched programs like “Unpacking Racism for Action.” Freeman’s leadership was instrumental in making the museum a hub for social justice conversations and activism, particularly during the Black Lives Matter movement.
Tiffany Gueye – CEO of BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life)
Tiffany Gueye served as CEO of BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life), where she was responsible for managing regional executive directors and overseeing program development and quality. Her work focused on expanding educational opportunities for underserved youth and improving the organization’s impact and reach.
Rosie Rios – CEO of Red River Associates, former US Treasurer
Rosie Rios served as the 43rd Treasurer of the United States and is currently CEO of Red River Associates, a real estate investment consulting firm. She has also joined the board of directors at Ripple Labs Inc. and is an investor on the streaming series “Unicorn Hunters.” Rios has been recognized for her contributions to finance and public service, including receiving the Hamilton Award from the U.S. Department of Treasury.
Nora Moreno Cargie – President of Tufts Health Plan Foundation
Nora Moreno Cargie is a skilled philanthropy leader and experienced business strategist. As vice president of corporate citizenship, she has demonstrated success in community engagement and nonprofit management. Her work has focused on developing and implementing strategies that meet the needs of communities and advance corporate social responsibility.
Tamara Copeland – President of Washington Regional Association of Grantmakers
Tamara Copeland served as the President of the Washington Regional Association of Grantmakers (WRAG). In this role, she was a major thought leader, helping to envision and implement work that meets the needs of the philanthropic sector. Her leadership was crucial in advancing collaborative and strategic grantmaking in the Washington DC region.
Celeste James – Executive Director of Center for Nonprofit Advancement
Celeste James has a diverse background in health equity and social impact. As Executive Director of Community Health at Kaiser Permanente, she led grant and social impact investments, programs, and advocacy for various health and social issues. Her work has focused on transforming healthcare approaches and strengthening community conditions for equitable access to good health and prosperity.
Kerrien Suarez – Executive Director of Equity in the Center
Kerrien Suarez is the Executive Director of Equity in the Center, an initiative focused on shifting mindsets, practices, and systems to achieve race equity in the social sector. She led the publication of “Awake to Woke to Work: Building a Race Equity Culture” and has been instrumental in coaching and supporting leaders and organizations in advancing racial equity. Suarez’s work has significantly influenced the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors in addressing structural racism and promoting inclusive practices.
Vu Le – Nonprofit leader and writer of Nonprofit AF blog
Vu Le is a nonprofit leader and the writer behind the popular blog Nonprofit AF. Known for his candid and humorous take on the nonprofit sector, Vu has been a vocal advocate for social justice, equity, and community-centric fundraising. He is the former Executive Director of RVC, a nonprofit in Seattle that promotes social justice by developing leaders of color and strengthening organizations led by communities of color. Vu’s blog has become a widely-read resource for nonprofit professionals, offering insights and challenging traditional practices in the sector.
Antony Bugg-Levine – CEO of Nonprofit Finance Fund
Antony Bugg-Levine is the CEO of the Nonprofit Finance Fund (NFF), a leading community development financial institution. Under his leadership, NFF has provided critical financial support and advisory services to nonprofits, helping them build financial health and resilience. Antony is a pioneer in impact investing, having previously led the Rockefeller Foundation’s initiative on the subject. He co-authored the book Impact Investing: Transforming How We Make Money While Making a Difference, and has been recognized as one of the most influential leaders in the nonprofit sector.
Phil Buchanan – President of Center for Effective Philanthropy
Phil Buchanan is the President of the Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP). Since joining CEP as its first chief executive in 2001, Phil has grown the organization into a leading provider of data and insights on philanthropic effectiveness. He is the author of Giving Done Right: Effective Philanthropy and Making Every Dollar Count, which was named “Best Philanthropy Book of the Year” by Inside Philanthropy. Phil is also the co-founder of YouthTruth, an initiative that uses student feedback to improve K-12 education. He has been named to the Nonprofit Times’ “Power and Influence Top 50” list multiple times.
Jacob Harold – Executive Vice President of Candid
Jacob Harold is the Executive Vice President of Candid, a leading source of information on philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. He previously served as the President and CEO of GuideStar, where he led the merger with Foundation Center to form Candid. Jacob is also the author of The Toolbox: Strategies for Crafting Social Impact, which provides practical guidance for social change leaders. His work focuses on enhancing transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in the nonprofit sector.
Robert Egger – Founder of DC Central Kitchen and L.A. Kitchen
Robert Egger is the founder of DC Central Kitchen and L.A. Kitchen, two innovative social enterprises that use food as a tool to combat hunger and create job opportunities. Under his leadership, DC Central Kitchen became a national model for food recovery and job training programs. Robert is a vocal advocate for nonprofit sector reform and has been recognized as one of the most influential nonprofit leaders by the Nonprofit Times. He is the author of Begging for Change: The Dollars and Sense of Making Nonprofits Responsive, Efficient, and Rewarding for All.
Diana Aviv – Former CEO of Feeding America and Independent Sector
Diana Aviv is the former CEO of Feeding America and Independent Sector. At Feeding America, she led the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, significantly increasing its impact and reach. As CEO of Independent Sector, she advocated for policies that support the nonprofit sector and fostered collaboration among nonprofits, foundations, and corporate giving programs. Diana’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing the missions of these organizations and addressing critical social issues.
Vikki Spruill – President and CEO of New England Aquarium, former CEO of Council on Foundations
Vikki Spruill is the President and CEO of the New England Aquarium and the former CEO of the Council on Foundations. At the New England Aquarium, she has focused on ocean conservation and education. During her tenure at the Council on Foundations, Vikki advocated for philanthropic excellence and innovation, helping to shape policies that support the nonprofit sector. Her leadership has been recognized for advancing environmental and philanthropic causes.
Daniel Cardinali – President and CEO of Independent Sector
Daniel Cardinali is the President and CEO of Independent Sector, a national membership organization that brings together nonprofits, foundations, and corporations to advance the common good. Under his leadership, Independent Sector has focused on strengthening the nonprofit sector through advocacy, research, and capacity-building initiatives. Daniel’s work has been pivotal in promoting collaboration and addressing systemic challenges facing the sector.
Ann Mei Chang – Executive Director of Lean Impact, author of “Lean Impact: How to Innovate for Radically Greater Social Good”
Ann Mei Chang is the Executive Director of Lean Impact and the author of Lean Impact: How to Innovate for Radically Greater Social Good. She has extensive experience in the tech industry and social innovation, having served as the Chief Innovation Officer at USAID and the Executive Director of the U.S. Global Development Lab. Ann Mei’s work focuses on applying lean startup principles to drive social change, helping organizations innovate and scale their impact.
The dedication and influence of these nonprofit leaders in the DC–VA–MD–WV metro area are truly inspiring. Their innovative approaches, unwavering commitment, and impactful initiatives have driven significant progress in various sectors. As we celebrate their achievements, we also recognize the importance of continued collaboration and support within the nonprofit community.
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If you know of any other influencers who should be added to this list, please let us know! Visit NonProfits.Club today to become a member and be part of a movement that is shaping the future of the nonprofit sector. Let’s work together to build a brighter, more equitable world.
