We depend on our dedicated staff to carry out Foundation for Louisiana's mission.
FFL's high-engagement team works closely with Louisiana residents to provide resources in support of their work. Our staff bring a wide array of experience and talent to our work, and they share an abiding commitment to building a better Louisiana.
Foundation for Louisiana’s leadership team is made up primarily of women, Black folks, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color. In a state that routinely reinforces its legacy of white supremacy, we are proud to have a team that looks like Louisiana.
Charmel Gaulden
CEO and President
As the CEO and President of the Foundation for Louisiana, Charmel Gaulden leads the organization with over 15 years of experience in nonprofit administration, program design, and strategic advocacy. In this role, Charmel oversees the Foundation's initiatives, fostering partnerships and guiding the strategic direction to support equity and justice in the region.
Charmel previously served as the Vice President of Public Safety Grants at Baptist Community Ministries and chaired the Greater New Orleans Funders Network (GNOFN) Criminal Justice Action Table. She is licensed to practice law in both Georgia and Louisiana and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana, as well as a Juris Doctorate from the University of Georgia.
Contact Charmel at cgaulden@foundationforlouisiana.org. To meet with Charmel, click here.
Dana Delpit
Chief Financial Officer
As the Chief Financial Officer for the Foundation for Louisiana, Dana Delpit brings over 30 years of expertise in non-profit fund accounting. In her role, Dana oversees the financial operations of the Foundation, ensuring fiscal integrity, managing budgets, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
A native of New Orleans, Dana previously served as the Compliance and Finance Manager for the PCCP program at Louisiana Public Health Institute. She holds a Bachelor's degree from Xavier University and earned her MBA from the New York Institute of Technology.
If you are reaching out to learn more about FFL’s financial leadership, strategy or compliance, please contact Dana at ddelpit@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Damia Khanboubi
Racial Justice Program Officer
As the Racial Justice Program Officer for the Foundation for Louisiana, Damia Khanboubi is dedicated to advancing justice, equity, and liberation. In her role, Damia focuses on developing and implementing initiatives that address systemic inequities and amplify marginalized voices. She also contributes to grantmaking and capacity-building efforts while co-leading the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) program.
Born in Casablanca and raised in New Orleans, Damia brings a unique cultural awareness to her work. She has participated in several leadership programs, including the Association of Performing Arts Professionals, FFL’s LEAD cohort, and the Intercultural Leadership Institute.
If you would like to learn more about our Racial Justice Program or share information about racial justice work, TRHT (Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation) programmatic work in New Orleans that you’re engaged in, contact Damia at dkhanboubi@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Mita Shrestha
Senior Staff Accountant
As the Senior Staff Accountant for FFL, Mita Shrestha brings over eight years of experience in financial recording, reporting, and budgeting, particularly for governmental and non-governmental grants. In her role, Mita excels in teamwork and cross-functional collaboration, working closely with various program teams to support the Foundation's financial operations.
Before joining FFL, Mita worked as a Staff Accountant at YWCA Hartford Region in Connecticut and as a Finance Officer at Save the Children International in Nepal. She holds an MBA in Finance from Apex College, Pokhara University in Nepal. Contact Mita at mshrestha@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Tiffany Hall
Grants and Special Projects Manager
As the FFL’s Grants and Special Projects Manager, Tiffany Hall oversees grant administration, supports the organization’s fundraising efforts, and ensures systematic and effective practices. Tiffany is passionate about advancing the FFL's mission through her expertise in grant management and nonprofit administration.
Previously, Tiffany served as the Operations & Grants Manager at the Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans, where she honed her skills in managing complex projects and fostering artistic growth. She holds a B.A. in Painting and an M.A. in Arts Administration from the University of New Orleans, combining her rich background in visual arts and dance with her professional acumen.
Tiffany’s dedication and multifaceted experience make her a vital asset to FFL’s mission of fostering meaningful community development and change.
Contact Tiffany at thall@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Megan Faunce
Chief of Staff
As Chief of Staff for the Foundation for Louisiana, Megan Faunce oversees strategic operations and organizational effectiveness, ensuring a smooth execution of the Foundation's mission and initiatives. With over 15 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Megan has a proven track record of managing complex programs and developing innovative solutions. Her extensive background includes working in operations management, human resources, and program development across both national and international organizations.
Megan holds an MBA from the University of New Orleans and a B.S. in Secondary Education from Temple University. You can contact her at mfaunce@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Jessica Kinnison
Fiscal Sponsorship Program Director
As the Fiscal Sponsorship Program Director for the Foundation for Louisiana, Jessica Kinnison leads the program with 15 years of federal and private grant management experience. In her role, Jessica oversees the Foundation’s fiscal sponsorship initiatives, ensuring effective management and support for sponsored projects and organizations.
Before joining FFL, Jessica worked at Project Lazarus, where she managed grants and provided support services for individuals experiencing homelessness and living with HIV. She holds a B.A. in Mass Communications from Loyola University and an MFA in Writing and Pedagogy from Chatham University.
If you would like to learn more about FFL’s fiscal sponsorship program, please reach out to Jessica at jkinnison@foundationforlouisiana.org. To meet with Jessica, click here
Michele Garval
Senior Staff Accountant
As the Senior Staff Accountant for the Foundation for Louisiana, Michele Garval brings 35 years of accounting experience spanning both the public and private sectors. In her role, Michele is responsible for managing financial operations and ensuring the accuracy of the Foundation’s financial records.
Before joining FFL, Michele served at organizations such as the Vera Institute of Justice, The Women’s Action Alliance, and Victim Services.
If you have a question about your loan, please contact Michele at mgarval@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Nicole Harris
Finance Director
As the Finance Director for the Foundation for Louisiana, Nicole Harris is a dedicated accountant who brings over ten years of accounting and non-profit financial reporting experience to the organization. In her role, Nicole oversees the Foundation's financial operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance in financial reporting.
A native of New Orleans, Nicole has previously served in the legal and medical fields, including roles at the Louisiana State Bar Association and Fresenius Medical Care. She is an alumna of Dillard University. You can contact her at nharris@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Sabrina Joseph
Staff Accountant
As a Staff Accountant for the Foundation for Louisiana, Sabrina Joseph brings a wealth of experience to the organization. In her role, Sabrina is responsible for maintaining the Foundation’s financial records and supporting the accounting team’s operations.
Originally from St. Maarten, Sabrina has worked across various sectors, including logistics, transportation, and healthcare. She holds a bachelor's degree from Wilberforce University and a master's degree in accounting from the University of Phoenix.
If you have a question about an invoice or payment, please contact Sabrina at sjoseph@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Jennifer Harding
Racial Justice Program Officer
As the Racial Justice Program Officer for the Foundation for Louisiana, Jennifer Harding focuses on advancing racial justice initiatives in Baton Rouge. Jennifer also contributes to grantmaking and capacity-building efforts while co-leading the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) program.
Jennifer brings extensive experience in policy and electoral campaigns, and she is deeply committed to creating a more just, equitable, and compassionate South. She thrives in complex and shifting environments, and her work is guided by a deep commitment to learning, reflective practice, and values-centered leadership.
If you would like to learn more about our Racial Justice Program or share information about racial justice work, TRHT (Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation), or you'd like to learn more about our programmatic work in Baton Rouge, please contact Jennifer Harding at jharding@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Emilia Aguinaga
Climate Justice Program Manager
As the Climate Justice Program Manager for the Foundation for Louisiana, Emilia Aguinaga focuses on advancing climate justice initiatives and advocating for vulnerable communities. In her role, she develops and manages programs that address environmental issues while promoting health, equity, and justice.
Emilia holds a BS in Psychology and French and an MSPH in Environmental Public Health and Development from Tulane University. Her multicultural background and understanding of the world's interconnectedness drive her passion for intersectional work that furthers these goals.
If you would like to learn more about our climate justice work, please contact Emilia at eaguinaga@foundationforlouisiana.org. To meet with Emilia, click here.
Cherrie Barthelemy
Senior Staff Accountant
As the Senior Staff Accountant for the Foundation for Louisiana, Cherrie Barthelemy brings over 30 years of experience in accounting, budgeting, and financial management. In her role, Cherrie is responsible for overseeing the Foundation's financial operations, ensuring accuracy, and supporting the organization's mission.
Born and raised in New Orleans, Cherrie returned home in 2014 after residing in Washington, DC, and Memphis, TN. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Xavier University and is excited to be part of an organization dedicated to uplifting communities across Louisiana. You can contact her at cbarthelemy@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Rachel Jackson
Fiscal Sponsorship Program Manager
As the Fiscal Sponsorship Program Manager for the Foundation for Louisiana, Rachel B. Jackson oversees the development and management of fiscally sponsored projects, working closely with community stakeholders to support initiatives that drive positive impact. A Louisiana native, Rachel combines her passion for culture and community with her expertise in nonprofit management to advance the Foundation's mission.
Rachel holds a degree in Communication Studies from LSU and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Outside of work, she enjoys yoga, reading, art, live music, and exploring new food experiences. You can contact her at rjackson@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Samantha Francois, Ph.D
Louisiana Justice Fund Director
Samantha Francois, Ph.D. is a community safety expert and developmental psychologist with deep expertise in adolescent development, structural violence, critical consciousness, anti-racism research, and equitable policy. As an interdisciplinary, community-engaged scholar-practitioner, Dr. Francois applies systems perspectives and critical race theory to examine the intersections of individual, community, and structural factors that shape racial inequity and discrimination in the United States.
Her leadership and expertise span violence prevention, community safety programming, and public safety grantmaking, with a focus on community-centered and evidence-based strategies that advance equity and systemic change. Dr. Francois conducts community-engaged intervention research, including studies on youth organizing and activism as tools for violence prevention, and employs participatory action research and equitable evaluation approaches that center the voices of marginalized communities. Her work is driven by commitments to health equity, prevention, restorative justice, social transformation, and community liberation.
Dr. Francois previously served as the Director of Outreach and Translation for the Violence Prevention Institute at Tulane University and Co-Director of the Center for Youth Equity, a CDC-funded Center of Excellence in Youth Violence Prevention. She also served as a consulting public safety grants reviewer for Baptist Community Ministries, advising grantmaking and strategic priorities. In these roles, she led grant-funded research initiatives, managed cross-sector public safety partnerships, and developed data-driven strategies for violence reduction and criminal legal system reform.
Dr. Francois holds a doctorate in psychological sciences with a concentration in developmental psychology from Tulane University and is a sought-after expert in community safety research and programming, fund development, and equitable policy design.
You can contact her at sfrancois@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Angél Martinez
Fiscal Sponsorship Program Coordinator
As the Fiscal Sponsorship Program Coordinator, Angél Martinez brings 10 years of experience in public sector operations specializing in procurement, budget and contracting. She possesses a strong passion for engaging with and promoting diverse suppliers to enhance inclusivity and innovation within public sector contracting. With adept skills in navigating local, state, and federal governing laws, Angél has a proven track record of optimizing government resources, streamlining operations, and driving strategic initiatives within the public sector. She also serves as a commissioned notary public for the State of Louisiana. Angél is a proud alumna of Southern University at New Orleans holding a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in psychology from Northcentral University. You can contact her at amartinez@foundationforlouisiana.org
Marisa Arrona
Criminal Legal Reform Program Officer
As the Criminal Legal System Reform Program Officer for the Louisiana Justice Fund at the Foundation for Louisiana, Marisa Arrona supports grantmaking, learning, and partnership strategies that advance community-centered approaches to safety, justice, and system transformation across Louisiana. Her work focuses on strengthening the ecosystem of organizations working toward criminal legal system reform, investing in narrative strategies, and supporting pathways to dignity and economic mobility for system-impacted people.
Marisa brings over 20 years of experience across government, philanthropy, advocacy, and research. She has held roles with the U.S. Department of Justice Community Relations Service, where she supported conflict resolution and community trust-building, and with the Greater New Orleans Funders Network, where she facilitated cross-sector collaborations to advance equity and community resilience. Her prior work also includes leading violence reduction efforts for the City of New Orleans, advancing statewide justice reform initiatives in California and Illinois, and supporting policy and systems change with the Vera Institute of Justice. Born and raised in Houston and now based in New Orleans, Marisa is deeply committed to equity-centered, community-informed strategies that translate lived experience and data into lasting systems change. You can reach Marisa at arronam@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Jilla Tombar
Director of Grants Management and Strategy
As Director of Grants Management and Strategy, Jilla leads grantmaking strategy, systems, and operations to ensure philanthropic resources move with clarity, accountability, and a sustained commitment to justice, in partnership with communities across Louisiana. Over the course of her career, Jilla has worked at every level of the philanthropic ecosystem—as a nonprofit leader, foundation staff member, philanthropic advisor, and foundation trustee. This breadth of experience shapes her approach to designing grantmaking systems that center equity, shift power, and support long-term community leadership. She brings more than 25 years of experience across the nonprofit and philanthropic ecosystem and has helped steward and deploy over $100 million into communities across Louisiana, the South, and nationally.
Prior to joining Foundation for Louisiana, Jilla founded and led BlackBridge Philanthropic, an advisory firm supporting philanthropists, foundations, and funding collaboratives engaged in justice-centered giving.
Previously, Jilla served as strategic partnerships officer at the Greater New Orleans Foundation, where she supported equity-oriented grantmaking across Southeast Louisiana. Earlier in her career, Jilla held senior nonprofit leadership and development roles in Washington, DC, including with the Latin American Youth Center, Earth Conservation Corps, and the Center for Nonprofit Advancement.
Jilla also serves as an adjunct professor in Tulane University’s John Lewis Public Administration Program and is faculty for the Impact Philanthropy Advisor program through Daylight Advisors. She holds a Master of Arts in Philanthropy and professional credentials including IPA® and CAP®. In addition to her professional roles, Jilla serves on the boards of the Louisiana Children’s Museum and the Phila Venture Fund. Jilla can be reached at jtombar@foundationforlouisiana.org.
Chloe Jobin
Philanthropy and Individual Giving Manager
As the Philanthropy & Individual Giving Manager, Chloé engages with individual supporters of FFL and enables them to become part of the bigger picture by resourcing the work that we do. In her role, Chloé is committed to mobilizing resources for freedom work statewide by nurturing grassroots fundraising, transformational gifts, and everything in between.
Before joining FFL, she previously worked at Xavier University of Louisiana and Louisiana Bucket Brigade. While the Deep South receives less than 3% of national philanthropic funding, Chloé is grateful to strive toward a more equitable distribution of those resources, and leverage philanthropy as a tool for systems change in Louisiana. If you're interested in becoming part of this work, you can contact her at cjobin@foundationforlouisiana.org