Dara (she/her) is passionate about helping nonprofits achieve their potential and assisting philanthropists engaging in meaningful, impactful giving. In 2019, she founded a consulting practice serving philanthropists, nonprofit professionals, and social entrepreneurs. Dara works closely with nonprofits on their strategy and organizational development, including helping them plan for growth. She also works one-on-one with executives to develop their management skills. On the philanthropic side, Dara partners with donors and foundations to develop and implement their giving strategy. 

A 20+ year veteran of the nonprofit sector, she held senior positions at Lippman Kanfer Family Philanthropies for nearly a decade. Dara has also worked in development for a variety of nonprofits and did an interesting stint in corporate management consulting. She earned her MBA from Fordham University and BA from Smith College. Smith spurred her involvement in the nonprofit sector, and as a deeply committed alumna, Dara has been active with both the Cleveland and New York Smith Clubs. She currently serves as Secretary of HFLA of Northeast Ohio (which does nondenominational interest-free lending) and is on the board of Hudson Montessori School. She is a former board member of Mayyim Hayyim. 

Dara grew up in NJ and lived in NYC for several years, moving to Ohio in late 2008. A voracious reader, she is a published poet and produced playwright. Dara lives with her husband,  two imaginative elementary aged sons, plus three cats. Occasionally, Dara goes to bed “on time.” 

Read more about Dara online and follow her on LinkedIn.