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Hali Lee
Founding Partner at Radiant Strategies
Professional Background
Hali Lee is a dedicated advocate for democratizing and diversifying philanthropy, with a remarkable career marked by her commitment to social change and community empowerment. As the Co-Founder of the Donors of Color Network, she has played a pivotal role in establishing the first national network for high-net-worth donors of color, a significant step in promoting inclusivity within philanthropy. Her passion for collective giving is evident in her involvement with Philanthropy Together, a national initiative aimed at strengthening and scaling collective giving movements across the United States. With a wealth of experience in nonprofit management, Hali is also the founder of the Asian Women Giving Circle, an organization that has effectively channeled over a million dollars to support arts and activism endeavors in New York City.
Hali’s professional journey is characterized by her leadership roles in various organizations dedicated to serving marginalized communities. She has held esteemed positions, such as the Executive Director of the Korean American Family Service Center and a member of the Board of Directors of the New York Women’s Foundation. Her extensive network and expertise in philanthropy have made her a sought-after consultant, and she continues to build her consulting practice, Radiant Strategies, focusing on strategic planning, capacity building, and cultural competency in philanthropy.
Education and Achievements
Hali's educational background is a testament to her commitment to understanding the intersection of culture, religion, and social work. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Religion and Studio Art from the prestigious Princeton University, where she developed a deep understanding of the cultural and spiritual narratives that shape communities. Furthering her education, Hali pursued a Master of Social Work (MSW) at New York University, equipping her with the necessary skills to address social issues and advocate for social justice.
Her academic journey also led her to Bangkok, Thailand, where she studied Buddhism at Mahidol University. This experience enriched her perspective on community service and social impact, informing her approach to philanthropy and her efforts to create inclusive spaces for diverse voices.
Personal Life
Born in Seoul, South Korea, and raised in Kansas City, Hali has a rich cultural heritage that influences her work and perspective. Currently residing in Brooklyn, New York, Hali fosters a vibrant home life with her family, including two cats and a big dog. She also has a passion for beekeeping, maintaining several hives of rooftop honeybees – a reflection of her dedication to sustainability and community engagement.
Hali Lee's robust combination of practical experience in the nonprofit sector, academic background, and personal commitment to diversity and inclusion positions her as a compelling leader in philanthropy. Her efforts continue to inspire others to contribute to a more equitable world through their giving.
Achievements
- Co-Founder of the Donors of Color Network, enhancing representation of high-net-worth donors of color in philanthropy.
- Founder of the Asian Women Giving Circle, directing over a million dollars to support arts and activism in NYC.
- Co-designer of the Philanthropy Together movement, advocating for the collective giving movement across the nation.
- Former Executive Director of the Korean American Family Service Center, providing critical services to the Korean American community.
- Served on the Board of Directors at the New York Women’s Foundation, contributing to initiatives focused on women's empowerment and social justice.