I founded Levain Partners on the belief that the work and lessons learned from my time leading the Open Society Foundations’ Grant Making Support Group can help other philanthropic endeavors, regardless of size or focus, align their structures, practices and processes with their values to become more effective. I bring to this work a broad and deep knowledge of the history of philanthropy in the US and around the world; gained through practice as a Program Officer and through study as a historian.

I have led and been part of diverse, global teams tasked with rethinking established practices that had become dysfunctional. Intense experience with change management means I’ve seen what can work or won’t. Strong emotional intelligence, people management skills, and a sense of humor have helped me through all of this.

I’m a creative teacher and tireless mentor able to successfully facilitate and engage groups in and from diverse backgrounds. I’ve taught in New York City public schools, public universities across the US, and in professional training settings from South Africa to Mongolia to Washington, DC. As a result, I’m adept at developing and delivering trainings to people “where they are” and have them respond with engagement and enthusiasm.