Cap® Stephanie Ellis-Smith

Cap® Stephanie Ellis-Smith is an independent philanthropic advisor, coach, and mentor with a focus on UHNW individuals, families, and foundations. With over 20 years of experience in the non-profit and philanthropic sectors, she assists clients in clarifying their giving goals and leveraging their resources to make a difference. Stephanie excels at empowering donors to maximize their impact, find joy in giving, and involving their families in philanthropic endeavors.

Stephanie Ellis-Smith is a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) renowned for her analytical skills, warmth, and efficiency in advising mission-driven donors. Her diverse background includes roles as a non-profit CEO, social enterprise COO, foundation trustee, business owner, board member, and community activist, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of the philanthropic landscape. She is well-equipped to collaborate with professional advisors to integrate philanthropy into financial and estate planning.

With a passion for facilitating impactful giving, Stephanie's leadership encourages donors to give thoughtfully, backed by empirical reasoning and genuine human connections. Her expertise spans philanthropy, facilitation, corporate social responsibility, strategic planning, family and non-profit governance, and non-profits. Stephanie's academic background includes a BA in English Literature and Biochemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a certification as a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy from The American College of Financial Services.

Currently, Stephanie Ellis-Smith serves as the Principal Advisor and Owner at Phila Engaged Giving, leveraging her extensive experience to guide clients in their philanthropic endeavors. She has previously been associated with organizations like Giving Gap, The Giving Practice, earthbongo, Inc., and the Central District Forum for Arts & Ideas.