Danista E. Hunte
The Board of Directors of Maryland Philanthropy Network is pleased to announce the appointment of Danista E. Hunte as its next President and CEO, effective October 11, 2023. Maryland Philanthropy Network (MPN) is a statewide membership association committed to building and activating a diverse, informed, and effective network of philanthropists to inspire transformational impact throughout Maryland.
“With our new strategic frame, MPN needs its next leader to further galvanize our network and carry our vision forward”, shared David Daniels, Maryland Philanthropy Network’s Board Chair in a message to MPN members. “Danista’s background and track record as a leader clearly demonstrates her ability to guide MPN to become an even stronger organization with an uncompromising commitment to equity and justice.”
Hunte brings with her a wealth of experience spanning over three decades in the philanthropic and non-profit sector. She most recently served as the Executive Director of Child First Authority in Baltimore, where she championed a network of community schools, after-school and summer learning programs; led a diverse team of staff to live out their values and take action to prioritize racial equity; and increased and diversified the organizations budget and board. “The opportunity for Danista to lead Maryland Philanthropy Network is a testament to her success at Child First and is a win for all who care about stronger communities,” shared Jessica Reighard, Child First Authority Board Chair.
Prior to her role at Child First Authority, Hunte worked at the Baltimore Community Foundation as a Program Officer, Senior Program Officer, and as Vice President of Community Investment. While there she provided support to family foundations, developed an evaluation and grants monitoring system, and was solely responsible for the foundation’s education portfolio. Hunte has also held several positions in public health and is a certified Birth Doula.
Hunte has been a member of ABFE: A Philanthropic Partnership for Black Communities and was an ABFE 2007-08 Connecting Leaders Fellow. She was honored in 2019 as one of The Daily Record’s Most Admired CEOs, and she currently serves as a board member for Baltimore’s Promise and the Baltimore City Charter and Operator-Led Schools Advisory Board.
“My commitment to service and supporting the non-profit sector has been a driving force in my career decisions,” shared Hunte. “The opportunity to lead Maryland Philanthropy Network and return to a field I love is an exciting prospect and presents a wonderful opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the equitable advancement of philanthropy in our region.”
ABOUT MARYLAND PHILANTHROPY NETWORK
Maryland Philanthropy Network (MPN) is a statewide membership association of private and community foundations, intermediaries, donor advised funds, giving circles, corporations, and public charities. Envisioning a courageous philanthropic community leading transformative and innovative work that results in an equitable and just Maryland, MPN provides critical information and services to the philanthropic community through programs and workshops and convenes funders and partners together to promote alignment and action around issues affecting communities across Maryland.
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