Whether you are a donor exploring how to make the greatest impact, a nonprofit navigating evolving community needs, a company seeking to align its values with meaningful community investment, or a community member interested in learning more about philanthropy in Howard County, our dedicated staff team is here to serve as your partners in philanthropy.
Collectively, our team has over 100 years of combined professional experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. Our passion for serving Howard County and for increasing philanthropic resources to better meet community needs is evident in every team member from the moment you meet us.
Dee Athey – Director, Grants & Community Engagement
Dee stewards our grantmaking, scholarship, and community engagement efforts. Reach out to Dee with questions about fund-related grantmaking, our Community Grants Program, scholarships, community needs, nonprofit partnerships, or our responsive funding initiatives.
Buffy Beaudoin-Schwartz – Senior Advisor, Philanthropy & Communications
Buffy leads our communications strategy, advances collective giving, and supports the growth of community philanthropy through thoughtful, creative approaches across our branding, monthly newsletter, website, and social media. Contact Buffy with questions about communications strategy, collective giving, or philanthropic storytelling.
Melissa Curtin – President & CEO
As President & CEO, I drive our strategic direction and implementation, and I partner closely with our Board of Trustees, donors, nonprofit partners, and community leaders to advance our mission and impact. Please reach out to me with questions about our vision, mission, strategic priorities, and how we can partner with you to meet your financial and philanthropic goals.
Dan Flynn – Director, Development & External Relations
Dan leads fundraising, donor engagement, sponsorships, and events. Reach out to Dan to discuss giving opportunities, business partnerships, donor-advised funds, agency funds, estate planning, or to explore other ways to support our community.
Juliet Gomez – Assistant, Executive & Operations
Juliet supports the team in a variety of ways that ensure greater efficiency and effectiveness day-to-day at Athol Manor, home of the Community Foundation of Howard County. Contact Juliet for scheduling, general inquiries, registering for one of our programs or events, or assistance with accessing your donor portal or resetting your password.
Jay Vidyarthi – Vice President, Finance & Operations
Jay oversees finance, operations, and compliance, and serves as our resident historian for Athol Manor. Reach out to Jay with questions related to financial stewardship, operations, internal systems, and Athol Manor.
Diane Zanko, Philanthropic Services Assistant
Diane supports data management, grant processing, and special projects.
We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our generous donors, nonprofit and business partners, and community leaders. We hope you’ll be in touch soon!
– Melissa Curtin, President & CEO, Community Foundation of Howard County