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Fernande Legros
Associate Director at Hirsch Philanthropy Partners
Professional Background
Fernande Legros boasts a diverse and accomplished career devoted to the realms of philanthropy, program management, and social entrepreneurship. Currently serving as the Associate Director at Hirsch Philanthropy Partners, Fernande plays a pivotal role in shaping and guiding philanthropic initiatives that drive positive social change. Her extensive background includes significant leadership positions in various organizations, where she has been instrumental in advancing community programs, supporting social enterprises, and enhancing organizational effectiveness.
Before taking on her current role, Fernande distinguished herself as a Program Officer at Full Circle Fund. In this capacity, she oversaw the development and execution of innovative programs aimed at addressing pressing social issues while fostering a culture of collaboration and partnership. This position allowed her to leverage her expertise in non-profit management and strategic planning, further solidifying her reputation as a visionary leader in the sector.
Fernande also served as the Bay Area Program Manager at Youth Speaks Inc., where she led initiatives focused on empowering youth through spoken word and literary arts. Her work elevated the voices of young people while providing them with the skills and platforms needed to express their creativity and advocate for social justice.
Additionally, Fernande's experience as a Residency in Social Enterprise Fellow at New Sector Alliance highlights her commitment to fostering sustainable business models that create social value. Here, she honed her skills in entrepreneurship while developing programs that supported the growth and impact of social ventures.
Another essential facet of Fernande's professional journey includes her roles as both Content Writer and Executive Relationship Manager at Urban Planet Mobile. These positions enabled her to blend her writing talents with strategic account management, bridging the gap between technology and social impact effectively.
Earlier in her career, Fernande coordinated the Hart Leadership Program at Duke University, where she inspired students to engage with communities and develop leadership skills through hands-on experience. Her internship at Jesuit Refugee Service further underscored her commitment to humanitarian efforts, providing support to vulnerable populations and further developing her passion for advocacy and social justice.
Education and Achievements
Fernande began her educational journey at Coral Gables Senior High School, where she laid the academic foundation that would support her future endeavors. She then pursued higher education at Duke University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. Duke's reputable curriculum and emphasis on leadership and public service significantly influenced her professional path and equipped her with essential skills needed in her career.
Additionally, Fernande enhanced her educational experience at the Universidad de las Américas, A.C., where she enriched her understanding of global perspectives and cultural dynamics, which are critical in today’s increasingly interconnected world. This diverse educational background has allowed her to approach her professional roles with a well-rounded perspective that appreciates different viewpoints and fosters inclusivity in her work.
Notable Achievements
Throughout her career, Fernande has accumulated numerous accomplishments that reflect her dedication to community service, leadership, and social impact. Her innovative programs at Youth Speaks Inc. successfully engaged numerous youths in artistic expression, proving the power of the arts as a tool for social change.
At Full Circle Fund, her program design and implementation strategies not only enhanced the organization’s outreach but also resulted in improved partnerships between philanthropic organizations and community-based initiatives.
Additionally, Fernande’s tenure at Hirsch Philanthropy Partners stands as a testament to her leadership skills, as she actively works to identify strategic priorities that align with the philanthropic desires of her clients while ensuring their investments lead to meaningful outcomes.
Conclusion
Fernande Legros exemplifies the spirit of service and leadership through her extensive background in philanthropy, education, and social enterprise. Her commitment to empowering communities and advocating for social change is evident in every role she has taken. As she continues to innovate and inspire, Fernande remains a beacon of hope and progress in the landscapes of social impact and community development.