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Jessie Gunn
Program Director at Whidbey Community Foundation
Professional Background
Jessie Gunn is an accomplished nonprofit management professional with an impressive career spanning over 15 years, marked by significant contributions in grants management, philanthropy, program evaluation, public administration, and data and policy analysis. Currently serving as the Program Director at Whidbey Community Foundation, Jessie has demonstrated her commitment to supporting and enhancing the community by managing various philanthropic initiatives. In addition to her professional endeavors, she is also a co-owner of Whidbey Pies, a family business located on Whidbey Island, WA, where she blends her entrepreneurial spirit with her passion for community engagement.
Previously, Jessie held a number of key positions that have honed her skills and expanded her knowledge base in the nonprofit sector. She has worked as a Program Manager at Whidbey Community Foundation, where she played a crucial role in shaping the foundation's strategic direction and grantmaking activities. Additionally, she has experience as a Grants Manager at Ballmer Group, where she was responsible for overseeing grant processes and ensuring effective allocation of resources. Jessie's journey in the nonprofit sector also includes impactful roles such as Grants and Evaluation Coordinator at The John A. Hartford Foundation, and Program Coordinator at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Her varied experiences have equipped her with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing nonprofits today.
Education and Achievements
Jessie's educational background is equally impressive and has laid a solid foundation for her professional accomplishments. She earned her Master’s Degree in Public Administration with a specialization in Nonprofit Management from the Evans School of Public Policy and Governance at the University of Washington. This advanced education has provided her with a thorough understanding of the complexities of nonprofit management and public service. Additionally, she completed a Certificate in Strategic Management for Nonprofit Organizations from the University of Illinois Chicago, further enhancing her skills in organizational strategy and executive leadership.
Jessie also holds a Bachelor's Degree in Global Studies with a focus on French from the University of California, Santa Barbara, complemented by her international studies in International Relations, Religious Studies, and History at Sciences Po Toulouse. Her commitment to education is evident in her extensive training in various academic disciplines, which enriches her professional capabilities. Moreover, she has a strong command of French literature and international relations, having studied at Université de Toulouse-le-Mirail (Toulouse II).
Achievements
Throughout her career, Jessie Gunn has achieved notable success and recognition within the nonprofit sector. At Whidbey Community Foundation, her leadership as Program Director has led to impactful community outreach programs that have significantly improved the lives of local residents. Her role encompasses strategic planning, program evaluation, and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the foundation's mission is fulfilled.
In her previous roles, Jessie has facilitated numerous grant allocations that have benefited diverse populations and addressed critical needs in health, education, and community development. Her ability to conduct thorough policy analysis and evaluation studies has enabled her to provide insightful recommendations that have shaped program outcomes. Furthermore, her tenure at organizations like Ballmer Group and The John A. Hartford Foundation has allowed her to refine her expertise in managing large-scale grants and evaluating their effectiveness, which is essential for fostering transparency and accountability in the nonprofit sector.
In addition to her professional roles, Jessie is a dedicated mother of two young children, which adds a layer of motivation to her work in community service. Balancing her family life with her commitments to her career and her business exemplifies her determination and ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while remaining focused on her professional goals.
Jessie's extensive background in nonprofit management, combined with her educational accomplishments and dedication to community service, positions her as a highly respected leader in the field. Her passion for philanthropy and her entrepreneurial spirit continue to drive her work and contributions to the community, making her a valuable asset to any organization she is involved with.
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