Nikkia is a nonprofit development and operations professional, currently the Development Director at Shalom Farms. With over a decade of experience, her career has been centered on nonprofit development and operations, relationship building, and empowering marginalized communities. Born and raised in NYC, Nikkia’s upbringing and experience in direct service and advocacy informs her commitment to advancing philanthropy rooted in equity and social justice. Nikkia is passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders and is involved in many community organizations and mentorship groups. She currently serves on the Board for the Virginia Association of Fundraising Executives (VAFRE) and Dogtown Dance. Outside of work, you can find her exploring the Richmond food scene, dancing, and traveling – and sometimes traveling to dance. Nikkia graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a B.S. in sociology and completed the AFP Central VA Inclusive Fundraising Fellowship in 2021.

Katy is the Director of Annual Giving at Reynolds Community College, where she works to strengthen philanthropic support for student success and educational access across the Richmond region. Prior to joining Reynolds, she held development roles at Sportable, Rx Partnership, Daily Planet Health Services, and Fairy Godmother Project. Katy received her B.A. in Sociology from the University of Mary Washington in 2013 and is a graduate of the Emerging Nonprofit Leaders Program through the Community Foundation for a greater Richmond. She earned her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation in 2025 and is the recipient of VAFRE’s 2024 Rising Star Award. Katy currently serves on the board of Capital Area Partnership Uplifting People (CAPUP). Born and raised in Richmond, Katy enjoys seeing live music, spending time outdoors, traveling to cities across the United States, and hanging out with her cat Sushi. She is an avid collector of hot sauces and has successfully completed the “Hot Ones” challenge.

Rainey is the Director of Development for the VCU School of Life Sciences & Sustainability and Rice Rivers Center. A graduate of that very school within VCU, Rainey is ecstatic to support students and faculty in this way. She also has had her CFRE designation since 2021. When not rounding up the big bucks for science, she can be found reading or outdoors running, hiking, and birding with her husband and two children. She is an avid traveler, and has never met a taco she didn't like.

Victoria is the Director of Development at the Valentine, where she leads fundraising strategy across annual giving, major gifts, grants, and special campaigns. She has previously held roles at CARITAS, Housing Families First, The Virginia Bar Association, and Henricus Historical Park. Victoria earned her undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech and holds a professional certificate in Grant Writing and Management from the University of Richmond’s School of Professional and Continuing Studies. She became a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) in 2023. In her free time, she enjoys vegetable gardening, as well as canning and preserving. Victoria lives in Mechanicsville with her husband, kids, Great Dane, and two cats.

Grace returned to her alma mater, St. Catherine's School, as the Director of Annual Giving in July 2025, after working as the Director of Development and Stewardship at St. James’s Episcopal Church. She has previously worked for several local nonprofits, including World Pediatric Project, Sportable, Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity, and Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia. Before moving into development, Grace taught Early Childhood, both in town at St. Andrew's School and in New Orleans. She received her Master’s in Nonprofit Studies from the University of Richmond and her undergraduate degree from Sewanee: The University of the South. She lives in Hanover with her husband, Ted, their son, Ward, and their three dogs: Buster, Boomer, and Mowgli.

Leighann brings more than 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience in fundraising, program development, education, volunteer management, special events, and executive leadership. She currently serves as a consultant with DLG Strategies, LLC. As Executive Director and Chief Fundraising Officer of FIRST Chesapeake, she secured 90% of the organization’s annual operating revenue while supporting more than 7,000 middle and high school students across the region. Earlier in her career, she managed the award-winning TimeTravelers Program for the Virginia Association of Museums. Leighann has served in numerous volunteer roles, including with the Ginter Park Residents’ Association, Leadership Metro Richmond, the Valentine, the Association of Science and Technology Centers, the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, and CARE. She earned a B.A. in Historic Preservation from University of Mary Washington and completed additional coursework through the University of Richmond and University of Virginia School of Architecture. Leighann is a 2016 graduate of Leadership Metro Richmond and qualified for her CFRE in 2024. After successfully launching 3 grown sons, she and her husband now live with their cats and two very spoiled Boston Terriers.

Robert is the Director of Black Initiatives at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). With 7 years of experience in development and alumni engagement, he’s well versed in frontline fundraising, event planning and project management. As a 2022 Central Virginia AFP Inclusive Fundraising Fellow, he is dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all his work and is currently developing a Black Philanthropy Initiative that is slated for a public launch in August 2026 for Black Philanthropy Month. Robert is also a 2025 graduate of the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute’s VCU Leadership Development Program. He currently holds a Master's in Sports Leadership from VCU and a Bachelor of Science in Health, Physical Education, and Exercise Science. When not cultivating relationships, you can find him visualizing how to create new experiences to engage creatives and music lovers in Richmond.

Devan was born and raised in Arlington, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from Virginia Tech. She began her career in the nonprofit sector in Washington, D.C., and later spent two years coordinating service opportunities for global volunteers in Bolivia before relocating to Richmond, Virginia. Throughout her career, she has held leadership and development roles with organizations including Communities In Schools of Richmond, Peter Paul RVA, Virginia LISC, and Communities In Schools of Chesterfield, with experience spanning fundraising, communications, event planning, capital campaigns, and project management. Most recently, she served as Chief Development Officer at St. Andrew’s School, and she currently serves as a Manager on the CRA team at Capital One, where she continues her focus on community impact.

Elizabeth is the Manager of Membership & Annual Giving at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC). She also manages the VMHC Stewardship Plan and supervises donor database systems. Recently, she was instrumental in a multi-year project to integrate all databases and ticketing systems for the VMHC. Prior to her current position, Elizabeth has held several positions at the VMHC, including Visitor Services Associate, Donor Services Officer, and most recently Manager of Advancement Services. She triple majored in History, French, and German Studies at the University of Richmond and earned her master’s in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Public History from the University of Richmond. She has served as the Co-Chair of the Museums, Zoos, & Aquariums Group of the Tessitura Network and has been a selected presenter at the national Tessitura Conference.

Karly previously served as the Development Coordinator at Sacred Heart Center. She is best known for her stewardship and donor services skills. Her focus is annual giving and management of the Neighborhood Assistance Project. Prior to Sacred Heart Center, Karly began her nonprofit career in Virginia, supporting the work of antiviolence awareness, education and advocacy. She coordinated training requests, managed the recruitment and onboarding of volunteers and planned outreach and community building events. Outside of work, Karly spends her time volunteering at The Steward School and at local urban gardens. Karly has managed projects from New York City, Los Angeles, Tampa and Richmond. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Mount Holyoke College, enjoys social dancing and loves an excuse to create a data sheet!

Laura is the Senior Program Manager for Planned Giving at Virginia Commonwealth University. In her role, she oversees estate administration, implements the planned giving marketing program, provides training for new staff members, manages legacy society stewardship, and supports campus partners in their planned giving projects and initiatives. Laura has worked in resource development for over 15 years and brings a breadth of skills and experience to the VCU Planned Giving office. Laura holds a B.S. from Virginia Commonwealth University and a certificate in fund development from the University of Richmond. In addition to her role as board member, Laura also serves as Chair of the VAFRE Communications Committee and is a member of the Executive Committee of the board. Laura is passionate about the city and lives in the Carillon neighborhood of Byrd Park with her husband and daughter. She spends most of her free time with her family and friends, and enjoys exploring the city, traveling, trying new restaurants, seeing live music, and visiting museums.

Elizabeth is the Director of Development at St. Joseph’s Villa, where she helps advance the organization's mission through philanthropy, community engagement, and strategic partnerships. Passionate about connecting community members and leaders with the real needs of their neighbors, Elizabeth believes deeply in the power of relationships to create meaningful change. A native of Richmond, Elizabeth has been involved with a number of local organizations including St. Andrew’s School, the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls, Fellowship of Christians in Universities and Schools (FOCUS), and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. She was recognized as the 2023 Rising Star by the Virginia Association of Fundraising Executives and was part of the team honored with the 2026 Nonprofit Excellence in Philanthropy Award. Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and two dogs.

Stephanie (she/her) brings more than 10 years of experience in investor relations, fundraising, nonprofit development, and foundation and corporate partnerships. At RUNWAY, she focuses on connecting investors and entrepreneurs who are driving positive social impact and sustainable growth. Throughout her career, Stephanie has developed strategies that support mission-driven leaders, high-impact ventures, and thriving communities. She holds a degree in Business Administration from Wilberforce University and a Master of Public Administration from Wright State University. Stephanie has mentored early-stage fundraising professionals and served on boards focused on economic empowerment and innovation. She is a nationally recognized speaker on partnerships, philanthropy, and community impact. In 2023, she was honored with the Money Moves Award for her leadership and impact in philanthropy and community investment. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys exploring the outdoors, attending local art exhibits, and organizing community events. She’s also passionate about travel and enjoys learning about different cultures and perspectives.

For over 25 years, Alan has helped nonprofit leaders tap into their fundraising potential. He serves as Chief Administrative Officer of Gateway Homes, a mental health services agency offering life-changing outcomes to over 500 individuals annually. He is also a Senior Partner Consultant at =mc consulting and the Director of Bow Tie Fundraising, a fundraising consultancy that focusses on empowering nonprofit CEOs and Development staff to “own” the revenue portion of their agency’s budget. Throughout his career, Alan has helped staff and volunteers discover their path to being involved in fundraising. Alan’s work has resulted in nonprofit organizations raising over $250M (US-based clients). Through =mc consulting, he has worked to help define the global fundraising strategies for Smile Train, Médecins Sans Frontières, Adeso, UNICEF, and IFRC. Alan currently serves on the boards of the Greater Richmond Bar Foundation and the Virginia Association of Fundraising Executives. He is a past board member of AFP Global and has served on AFP Foundation for Philanthropy’s Executive Committee.

Malcolm serves as the devoted Executive Director of Rebuilding Together Richmond, overseeing initiatives to provide essential home repair services to neighbors in need. His nonprofit journey commenced in program management in 2010 with the Metropolitan Business League, a local organization championing minority businesses and entrepreneurs. In 2014, Malcolm joined Rebuilding Together Richmond, initially as a part-time development associate. He swiftly progressed, assuming positions as fund development and communications manager before attaining his current role in 2019. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a degree in Mass Communications, Malcolm further honed his leadership skills as an alumnus of Leadership Metro Richmond, class of 2015 and has participated in VAFRE’s P3 Program. With his blend of experience, passion for community service, and dedication to professional growth, Malcolm continues to make a significant impact in the Richmond area.

Carol Anne is the chief advancement officer for the Richmond SPCA. She joined the Richmond SPCA in 2019 as director of development before being promoted to chief advancement officer in 2022 where she oversees fundraising, communications, and children's humane education programming. In prior roles, Carol Anne served as director of development and external relations for the Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University and chief development officer for the YWCA of Richmond. Carol Anne spent 11 years at the Virginia Historical Society before joining the YWCA. She holds a bachelor of science degree from VCU and a master’s from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Carol Anne has previously served on the VAFRE board and is a past chair of Richmond Impact 100, a women’s grant-making collaborative. Her passions include Bruce Springsteen, making up songs about her dogs, and being around smart women. She lives with her husband, three adopted dogs, and a flock of highly entertaining chickens in North Chesterfield.

A native of Roanoke Virginia, Jay possesses a wide range of development experience, including annual fund, fundraising events, board giving and grants writing. In 2019, He completed a $5.5M capital campaign for the Heart of Virginia Council, Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, for more than ten years, Jay served as Marketing Director for the State Fair of Virginia, responsible for more than $3M in ticket sales revenue and $75,000 in corporate sponsorships annually. More recently,Jay served as Vice President of Development & Marketing for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Richmond, before joining the staff at Elk Hill as their Chief Philanthropy Officer. He lives in Richmond with his college sweetheart and three groovy kids. In his free time, he goes fishing and plays drums with his band at local dive bars.

Joycelyn currently serves as the Director, Ridley Scholarship Program, at the UVA Alumni Association. Most recently, she had served as the Director, University Development at Virginia Commonwealth University. With more than ten years of experience in fundraising, she has worked for various public and private institutions throughout her career. A native of South Florida, Joycelyn earned her BA in Legal Studies from the University of Central Florida and later earned her Masters in Organization Leadership from Brenau University. In her spare time, she loves to hang out with her husband, family and friends. Joycelyn loves to cheer on her UCF Knights in college football in the fall and VCU in basketball in the spring. She is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Megan serves as Director of Philanthropy at Peter Paul, whose mission is to support the neighbors of the East End of Richmond and educate its students, equipping them to serve as positive contributors to their families, community, and society. Prior to Peter Paul, Megan served as Development Director at the Menokin Foundation, where she oversaw their $9.5 capital campaign and all other organizational development efforts. She has over 19 years of professional development, communication and nonprofit management experience. She has held leadership positions at the Virginia Hemophilia Foundation, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, the March of Dimes, the U.S. Green Building Council- Virginia Chapter, Airports Council International and the American Civil War Museum. She enjoys relationship building, writing, developing and empowering others to embrace the spirit of philanthropy. A Virginia native, Megan grew up in Midlothian and attended James Madison University, where she graduated in 2005 with her B.A. in English and Speech Communication. She currently resides in Mechanicsville with her two children, Rylan and Evie. In her free time, Megan enjoys reading, travel, cooking, yoga and hiking.

James is the Executive Director of Development at the Virginia Commonwealth University College of Humanities and Sciences, a position he's held since September of 2025. In his role, James leads a talented team to engage donors, alumni, and community stakeholders to advance the College’s mission, centering public education for a public good. Previously, he was Senior Director of Development with the VCU School of Social Work and Director of Development at The Doorways and St. Michael's Episcopal School. He relocated to Richmond in 2018 after working in development for a variety of causes in New York City. James received his M.B.A. from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2022 and his Bachelors in Arts Management from Ithaca College in 2013. Personally, James is an avid cook, gardener, amateur beer brewer, pianist, and choral singer.

Maryanne joined Venture Richmond in 2024 as Campaign & Development Manager, overseeing fundraising for the campaign to transform Brown’s Island into a world-class riverfront park while helping expand the organization’s philanthropic impact across Downtown Richmond. With more than a decade of experience in nonprofit and political fundraising, she specializes in annual giving, major gifts, donor stewardship, campaign strategy, and event management. Before joining Venture Richmond, Maryanne served as Director of Donor Engagement at the Autism Society of Central Virginia, leading fundraising, donor engagement, signature events, and grant initiatives. She has also held fundraising and communications roles with the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education, Wheelock Family Theatre, and several political campaigns and organizations across the East Coast. Originally from the Detroit suburbs, Maryanne earned a B.A. in Political Science from Grand Valley State University and has called Richmond home since 2018. She lives in Byrd Park with her husband and their two children. Outside of work, she enjoys calligraphy, cooking for friends and family, and exploring Richmond’s vibrant restaurant scene.

Nicole is the Director of Fund Development and Mission Advancement at project:HOMES, leading fundraising, marketing, and community engagement efforts. She held positions in community and public relations for state and local government agencies before making the switch to the nonprofit sector in early 2021. More exciting than undergraduate work at VCU and an MPA from Virginia Tech is Nicole’s status as a 3x participant in VAFRE’s P3 program and completion of Leadership Metro Richmond in 2024. After work, Nicole likes to help our local animal rescues as a foster and volunteer.

Trevor serves as the Director of Leadership and Planned Giving at the Richmond Symphony. He has spent over 15 years fundraising for small nonprofits across the East Coast and has also served in large, complex nonprofits as well. Trevor has worked across identity-based scholarship, grateful patient fundraising, mission-based fundraising, and endowment growth and stewardship fundraising. He has managed the P3 Mentoring Program for VAFRE for the past 3 years. In addition to his VAFRE Board service, Trevor serves as the Program co-Chair for VFRI and on the Board of Directors for his alma mater UNC Asheville.