ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ

deb@ciswa.org

Deb holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from Hamilton College and a Master’s Degree in Communication Studies from Boston University.

Joined the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA State Office team in OctoberÌý‘25

About Deb:ÌýDeb is the Grants Manager at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA). Her journey into communications and writing began with a lifelong love of stories—an appreciation that naturally led her to study English literature. Over time, she discovered a fascination with how powerful words can be when used thoughtfully and intentionally, which inspired her to pursue a graduate degree in Communication Studies.​

Before joining ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA, Deb built a rich and varied career in communications, development, and nonprofit leadership. She began her professional path in retail management and communications roles at organizations such as Hamilton College,ÌýCondé Nast, and a graphic design firm. After earning her master’s degree and raising her family, she joined the Kids Discovery Museum on Bainbridge Island, where she spent more than a decade growing the organization’s fundraising programs as Deputy Director. Later, as a Grant Writer for Boys & Girls Clubs of King County, she wrote and managed more than 75 grant applications each year—developing deep expertise in youth development, education, and philanthropy.​

Deb brings to ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA extensive experience in grant writing, fundraising, and storytelling. In her role as Grants Manager, she:​

• Manages multiple grant projects and deadlines throughout the year.​
• Develops compelling proposals and reports that reflect the mission and impact of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA and its affiliates.​
• Collaborates with colleagues and partners to prepare strong, data-driven funding requests.​
• Builds and maintains relationships with funders to support ongoing organizational growth.​

Deb finds it most rewarding to tell the story of the organization through grant proposals—celebrating progress, highlighting impact, and helping to make meaningful work possible.ÌýShe isÌýdeeply aligned with the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ mission, believing that every student deserves access to education and opportunity.​

Outside of work:ÌýDeb enjoys watching baseball and football, going to the movies, listening to live music, walking along the water, and catching up with friends. A creative at heart,Ìýshe’sÌýoften knitting, quilting, or trying out new craft projects she finds on Pinterest. She also loves exploring Bainbridge Island on her e-bike—often with her dog, Kona, riding along in a backpack for the adventure.