Introducing the 2025 Emerging Leaders in Philanthropy Tech

The Technology Association of Grantmakers (TAG) proudly introduces its 2025 Emerging Leaders, chosen from a diverse international pool of applicants. Now in its eighth year, the Emerging Leaders Initiative (ELI) is dedicated to nurturing future leaders in philanthropy, recognizing the increasing importance of technology in this sector. Through mentorship and fellowship, the ELI program aims to propel the careers of 12 rising stars in the field.

This year’s ELI cohort brings together a diverse group of professionals working in tech-related positions across philanthropic organizations across the globe. These individuals are at the early stages of their careers, newly appointed to their roles, or transitioning into philanthropy, with a shared passion for leveraging technology to further philanthropy’s mission.

“I’m thrilled to welcome the 2025 Emerging Leaders into this transformative program. The future of philanthropy will be driven by those who understand the power of technology and demonstrate the compassion, innovation, and leadership needed to shape a more equitable and effective sector. These individuals are poised to make a lasting impact, and TAG is proud to support them on this journey”

– Bill Robertazzi, ELI Program Director, TAG

We congratulate the 2025 Emerging Leaders and extend our deepest gratitude to the TAG member executives for volunteering their time and sharing their invaluable expertise as mentors.

2025 TAG Emerging Leaders 

• JENNIFER BARRETT, Director of Grants, Vermont Community Foundation
• BECKY THATCHER BAER, Data Specialist, The Heinz Endowments
• RICO BROWN, Computer Systems Analyst, Greater Milwaukee Foundation
• CHRIS CHAPDELAINE, Data and Operations Officer, Delaware Community Foundation
• CINDY CHEN, Grants Management Specialist, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
• ALAN DELBRIDGE, Director of Technology and Information Systems, Community Foundation for a greater Richmond
• JESSICA DIEP, Manager of Grants Administration, ECMC Foundation
• DANNY FREUND, Grants Manager, Princeton Area Community Foundation
• TIM HARPER, Operations & Security Manager, Clean Air Fund
• MATT KASTELLEC, Manager, Systems & Knowledge Management, NewSchools Venture Fund
• MEGAN LUCY, Grants Administrator, Wilburforce Foundation
• RISA PREZZANO, Web Developer and Designer, John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

Applications for 2026

Applications for our 2026 cohort will open in June 2025. All current TAG members are invited to apply.

“TAG’s ELI program provided me with invaluable mentorship and a strong community of changemakers in philanthropy tech. The knowledge and networks I gained transformed my understanding of how technology can revolutionize grantmaking. If you’re passionate about the future of philanthropy, ELI is the program for you.”

– Viktoria Palushaj, Senior Associate, The Kresge Foundation 

Program Funders

TAG’s Emerging Leaders Initiative is made possible thanks to the generosity of our Institutional and Sector Steward member organizations, as well as to our Sustaining Sponsor, Submittable. Their additional investments, above their regular membership dues, help fund the Emerging Leaders Initiative and support unique research and programs that serve the wider philanthropic sector.