Dara (she/her) is the CEO/President and majority owner of DRG, where she has the privilege of leading an extraordinary team of consultants—and yes, occasionally reminding them to come up for air. Under her leadership, DRG has more than tripled in size, expanding its reach and impact across the nonprofit sector. In addition to guiding the firm’s strategic growth, Dara brings deep expertise in executive search and talent strategy for mission-driven organizations. She specializes in CEO and senior leadership searches, with a particular focus on organizations serving children, families, and communities with complex needs.

Dara is known for her deep listening, strategic clarity, and relationship-centered approach to search. With more than two decades of experience in executive search and nonprofit leadership, she brings both rigor and heart to her work—ensuring that every search process is thoughtful, inclusive, and built for long-term success. Clients value her ability to balance big-picture thinking with careful attention to detail, as well as her calm, steady presence during complex (and sometimes high-opinion) transitions. Prior to DRG, Dara built a career grounded in talent strategy and leadership advising, and she brings a particular passion for supporting organizations that serve individuals with developmental disabilities—an area where she has also been a dedicated advocate. She believes deeply that the right leadership doesn’t just fill a role—it can transform an organization and the community it serves.

Dara has partnered with a wide range of nonprofits, foundations, and schools on high-impact leadership searches and talent initiatives. Her recent work includes placing CEOs and Heads of School, and advising boards and senior leaders on compensation, contract negotiation, leadership transitions, and organizational design.

Dara lives in New Jersey with her family and is an active member of her community. She currently serves as President of the Board of Directors at a local independent school and has held board roles for a number of organizations on both the local and national level. Outside of work, she finds joy in time with her amazing husband and children, her two mini aussiedoodles, Leo and Ollie, listening to music, enjoying a well-crafted cocktail, and playing a not-so-intense (but still competitive) game of mahjong.

Colleagues and clients value Dara’s warmth, candor, and steady leadership—and her genuine belief that the right leader can change everything.

Ami (he/him) is a Senior Partner at DRG, where he leads CEO and senior leadership searches while also advising clients and internal teams to ensure successful, high-impact engagements. His work spans nonprofits focused on criminal justice, human services and communal organizations nationwide, with a focus on complex leadership transitions and organizational strategy.

Ami is known for his strategic thinking and problem-solving, often serving as a key advisor to both clients and DRG teams throughout the search and consulting process. He works closely with colleagues across the firm to help shape search strategy, navigate challenges, and ensure strong outcomes.

In addition to his client work, Ami is deeply involved in building DRG’s strategic relationships and leading new initiatives that expand the firm’s reach and offerings. He brings an entrepreneurial mindset and a practical, solutions-oriented approach to every engagement and strategic partnership.

Originally from Boston, Ami lives in Brooklyn with his wife, Yona, and with the two younger of their four children. Outside of work, he loves to travel and to spend time in the outdoors with his family.

Heather (she/her) is a Senior Partner at DRG. Her unique expertise in seeing the big picture and charting a course for the future helps nonprofit and other purpose-driven organizations to succeed in their missions.

Heather is highly regarded in the industry, partnering with organizational leadership to thrive in a world of complexity and constant change.

Heather lives in Massachusetts with her husband and four children. She’s an avid traveler, passionate about spending time in the great outdoors and can usually be found immersed in an engaging audiobook.

Lori (she/her) is a Partner at DRG, where she specializes in CEO and senior leadership searches as well as advisory engagements that help organizations align talent strategy with evolving mission priorities. Lori works most often with nonprofits, foundations, and mission-driven institutions across the health, human services, legal advocacy, education, and broader social impact sectors.

With more than fifteen years of experience and over 70 executive searches completed, Lori is known for her thoughtful listening, creativity, and ability to guide organizations through critical leadership decisions. She designs customized search processes that reflect the unique moment an organization is in, the team already in place, and the leadership needed to move forward.

Lori has led leadership searches and advisory engagements for organizations including the National Urban League, DoSomething.org, the Osborne Association, and Boys & Girls Club of Harlem. She has also partnered with organizations such as the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care and Neufeld Scheck Brustin Hoffmann & Freudenberger, LLP, and Panorama Global in the search for leadership of the Funders for a Safe Childhood initiative—work that reflects her commitment to strengthening leadership across the broader social impact ecosystem.

Lori lives with her family in North Carolina and finds joy in time with her children, meaningful conversation, and staying connected to the people and ideas shaping a more thoughtful and humane future of work—an outlook that reflects her belief that when the right leader meets the right mission at the right moment, extraordinary impact becomes possible

Tani (he/him) is a Partner at DRG and one of our go-to experts for high-level CEO and senior leadership searches, particularly within independent schools, nonprofits, and the Jewish community. Over the course of conducting hundreds of searches, he’s become known for his exceptional listening, thoughtful communication, and the steady, calming presence he brings to even the most complex moments. He has built an extensive national network of mission-driven leaders and rising talent. That reach allows him to identify exceptional candidates quickly and connect organizations with people they may never have found on their own.

Tani has distinguished himself through his authenticity, dedication, and ability to forge relationships that last. Today, he leads searches across community building, human services, education, and philanthropy for organizations such as The Tepper Foundation, American Technion Society, Institute for Curriculum Services, and Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School, always with an approach defined by deep listening, thoughtful problem-solving, and a calm, steady presence in challenging moments.

A proud Baltimore native, Tani now lives in the Philadelphia suburbs with his wife, Jordana, and their three children. He remains active in his community, serving on the board of The Kaiserman JCC. Outside of work, he’s often found spending time with family and friends, staying active, getting lost in a great podcast, or cheering on Steph Curry as he lights up the court.

Sarah (she/her) is a Partner at DRG, where she leads searches for complex organizations focused on community building, education, social justice, and youth development. She specializes in helping organizations identify and fill critical leadership gaps, from senior executives to program and strategy roles.

Known for her deep listening, strategic insight, and relationship-centered approach, Sarah asks thoughtful questions to uncover both stated and unstated organizational needs. She brings experience as an Executive Director and Director of Talent for nonprofit organizations, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges of finding and retaining top talent. Her colleagues and clients appreciate her positivity, clarity, and ability to guide search processes with both rigor and warmth.

Sarah has partnered with a range of organizations across the nonprofit sector, including social justice, youth development, and educational institutions. Her recent searches have supported high-impact placements that strengthen organizational culture, advance mission, and drive lasting impact for organizations.

Originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Sarah lives there with her husband and three children. She finds joy in hiking, playing Mahjong, breaking into dance at a moment’s notice, and savoring chocolate chip cookies.

Sruti (she/her) is a Senior Consultant at DRG and a strategic advisor who helps mission-driven organizations turn vision into action. She specializes in strategic planning, implementation support, and organizational development, partnering with nonprofits and foundations of all sizes to design and implement strategies that drive meaningful and lasting impact. Through her work, she has become known for facilitating collaboration, synthesizing complex information, and ensuring that strategic plans become actionable roadmaps rather than static documents.

Sruti brings deep expertise in helping organizations navigate complexity, align their goals with community needs, and build the infrastructure necessary for long-term success. Since joining DRG in 2021, she has led transformational projects that strengthen organizations from the inside out—improving operations, building capacity, and maximizing impact. Clients value her ability to create clarity in uncertain environments and support leaders in making bold, strategic decisions. She has supported organizations such as The Kettering Foundation, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Reconnecting Canton, helping them engage their constituents, evaluate their outcomes, and achieve sustainable, mission-driven growth.

Outside of work, Sruti enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time with her husband, Joe, their children Khalil and Ishani, and their dog, Lila.

Jess (she/her) is a Senior Consultant at DRG where she leads executive-level searches with a particular focus on health, public health, and human services.

Jess is known for her thoughtful, person-centered approach and her ability to build strong, trust-based relationships with clients and candidates alike. She brings 15 years of experience working in non-profits and public health, including roles at NYC Health + Hospitals and the NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene. She brings deep expertise in program development and implementation, systems transformation, and the development of high-impact teams. Jess holds Masters degrees in Public Health and Social Work from Columbia University.

Her approach is grounded in listening closely, developing a nuanced understanding of each organization’s culture and priorities, and thinking expansively about the leadership needed to drive impact. Clients appreciate her strategic clarity, responsiveness, and genuine investment in their success. Jess holds master’s degrees in Public Health and Social Work from Columbia University.

Originally from Rhode Island, Jess now lives in South Orange, New Jersey with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys weekend adventures with her two kids and connecting with new people, which continues to fuel her curiosity and passion for this work. Colleagues and clients value her curiosity, warmth, and deep commitment to supporting mission-driven organizations and the communities they serve.

Rachel (she/her) is a Senior Analyst at DRG who specializes in compensation benchmarking and organizational analysis for mission-driven organizations. Known for her collaborative approach, she works closely with nonprofits, foundations, and independent schools to bring clarity to the broader compensation landscape, helping clients make thoughtful, data-informed salary decisions that balance equity and fiscal responsibility.

Prior to joining DRG, Rachel spent nearly fifteen years in education. She began as a Peace Corps volunteer teacher in West Africa and later held a variety of roles in the independent boarding school world. These experiences gave her a deep appreciation for the complexity of mission-driven institutions and the people who lead them. Rachel originally joined DRG as part of the executive search team and still enjoys occasionally supporting searches in the independent school sector.

Rachel lives in Lake Placid, NY where she serves on the board of her local nonprofit early childhood center. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, playing board games, hiking, reading cozy mystery novels, and drinking all kinds of warm beverages.

Nina (she/her) is a Consultant at DRG, where she partners with mission-driven organizations to lead executive searches and talent engagements across the nonprofit sector. She specializes in fundraising and development searches, Jewish communal organizations, and arts and culture institutions, helping organizations identify leaders who can advance both strategy and mission.

Before joining DRG, Nina held development roles at organizations including The Aspen Institute and Jewish National Fund. She holds a dual degree in Fine Art and Mass Communications from Towson University. With her background in nonprofit fundraising, Nina brings a practitioner’s perspective to her work and approaches each search with both structure and care. She is known for running organized, detail-oriented search processes while building thoughtful relationships with clients and candidates alike. Her human-first approach ensures that stakeholders feel heard, supported, and confident throughout the search journey. Nina is particularly passionate about working with Jewish communal organizations and values-driven leaders, as well as arts and culture institutions that strengthen creative communities.

Her recent work includes partnerships with organizations such as the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, Women of Reform Judaism, The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law, Armed Services Arts Partnership, Boston Center for the Arts, BRIC, and World Without Exploitation, in addition to work with foundations, federations, and other national nonprofits.

Originally from Havre de Grace, Maryland, Nina now lives in Washington, D.C. Outside of work, she enjoys running and fitness, painting, design projects, pickleball, and fostering dogs in her community in honor of her own dog, Nala, who she adopted from Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS).

Brina (she/her) is an Administrative Associate at DRG. She is passionate about making an impact within marginalized communities by helping people gain access to resources that will allow them to succeed.

Brina has experience as a former Wellness Membership Advisor and Administrative Assistant. She is a graduate of State University of New York at Oswego where she earned a bachelor’s in Business Administration.

Brina was born and raised in Long Island. She is an avid photographer, nature lover, and dog mom to Luna. She loves travel and looks forward to her next adventure.

Laura (she/her) is a Principal with DRG, bringing more than 15 years of executive search experience. Laura has led numerous searches for private philanthropies, community-focused nonprofits, and arts organizations. She has successfully navigated leadership transitions of long-serving leaders as well as finding inaugural leaders for newly created roles. Laura’s search expertise includes roles in impact investing, fundraising, strategy, operations, and program-related positions. Her personal story has led her to gravitate to searches which support rural communities, underserved neighborhoods, and organizations which create access to education and economic opportunity.

Laura views the search process as a true partnership, leaning in to understand each organization’s culture and values as well as their strategy goals. Clients frequently comment that they feel understood, and candidates appreciate the care Laura gives throughout the search process.
Laura’s has placed leaders in roles from Program Officer to CEO. Recent partnerships include the High Museum, Dogwood Health Trust, members of the Purpose Built Communities network, and Dogwood Alliance.

An Atlanta native, Laura is a first-generation college graduate and proud granddaughter of farmers in Western North Carolina on her mom’s side, and Italian immigrants on her father’s side. Her origin story informs her commitment to each search.

Laura spends her free time volunteering with Meals On Wheels and a literacy support group she founded with some friends that helps English and Spanish speaking children and their caregivers improve their reading skills. Laura and her husband are avid University of Georgia football fans (Go Dawgs!) and are parents of pups Lolly and Dougal. Laura is an enthusiastic but terrible gardener, a passionate cook, and is a font of 80s and 90s cultural trivia.

David (he/him) is the President and Founder of DRG. David is a trusted advisor to client boards and search committees while serving as a mentor to the DRG team. He is an expert in identifying and advising leaders in the nonprofit sector and always approaches each organization based on its unique needs and culture. He also particularly enjoys coaching new executives through their first years in the position.

Clients lean on David for his expertise in search, executive transitions, and his ability to provide a clear view of the market and an honest conversation about the perceived strengths and concerns regarding their organization.

David splits his time between Manhattan and his home in the Berkshires, Massachusetts, and keeps very busy with his eight grandchildren who live in Connecticut, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. He is an avid tennis player, a downhill skier, a gardener, and a builder of outdoor log furniture.

Tamar (she/her) is a Project Administrator at DRG, managing logistics, scheduling, communications, file management, and technology support for the firm. She ensures that projects run smoothly and that teams have the tools and systems they need to succeed.

Tamar has over 10 years of experience in operations, including her work as Operations Coordinator at the Jewish Educational Loan Fund. She is known for her detail-oriented approach, proactive problem-solving, and for testing new tools to improve efficiency and workflow. Tamar enjoys streamlining processes, troubleshooting tech challenges, and supporting her colleagues so they can focus on delivering the best outcomes for clients. She holds a B.B.A. in Management from Georgia State University.

Born and raised in Atlanta, Tamar continues to call it home and enjoys spending time with family, listening to podcasts, and keeping up with the latest Marvel and Star Wars content.

Mary (she/her) is the Marketing Manager at DRG, where she supports consultants and firm leadership through new business initiatives, customized proposals, and RFP responses. She also helps advance DRG’s broader marketing efforts by tracking and analyzing business development metrics, creating digital content, and maintaining brand consistency across materials. Mary supports the implementation and optimization of marketing tools and platforms to streamline production and support effective, coordinated outreach.

Known for her strong listening skills, attention to detail, and collaborative approach, Mary brings experience from both nonprofit and agency settings. She holds a bachelor’s degree in strategic communications with a focus in Public Relations from Temple University.

Mary lives in the Philadelphia suburbs with her husband, Jake. Outside of work, she enjoys trying new restaurants, spending time at the Jersey Shore, and cheering on the Eagles (Go Birds!)

Sherry (she/her) is a Principal at DRG and a nationally recognized executive search consultant. She has spent more than two decades helping mission-driven organizations identify and recruit talented leaders. Her work focuses on nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, and foundations working on issues such as democracy, civil rights, public policy, social justice, and community impact.

Sherry’s career began in Washington, D.C., where she worked at the intersection of law, public policy, and advocacy. Early in her career, she served at public-interest organizations, including People for the American Way and Public Citizen, where she worked on issues related to civil liberties, constitutional law, and government accountability. She later served as Counsel to U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone of Minnesota.

In 2005, Sherry launched her own executive search consulting practice focused on the nonprofit and social-impact sector. Over the years, she built a national reputation for placing executive directors, chief executives, and senior leaders.

At DRG, Sherry leads executive searches and provides strategic leadership consulting to nonprofit organizations across the country. Her work often involves partnering with boards and search committees to clarify leadership needs, design effective search processes, and identify candidates with the vision, experience, and values required to lead mission-driven organizations. Sherry brings a unique combination of policy experience, nonprofit expertise, and trusted relationships to all of her searches.

Sherry is a Board member of Hope Chicago, an economic mobility initiative that removes barriers to postsecondary success to two generations of South and West Side Chicago families, and for 20 years she partnered with her Uncle Joe in his philanthropic work to support many college access and success organizations.

Jennifer (she/her) is a Principal and independent schools practice lead at DRG. For the past five years, she has facilitated leadership searches across schools, foundations, and social justice organizations. In addition to leading high profile searches, she is a University of California at Berkeley certified executive coach and supports our clients with leadership coaching, succession planning, 360 evaluations, and board facilitation.

Jennifer’s curiosity, empathy, and authenticity build a deep sense of trust between her and her clients, and they appreciate her dedication, open communication, and push for equity to help deliver great results for organizations. Before joining DRG, Jennifer spent 25 years teaching and leading in top-tier independent schools most recently running Polytechnic School’s Upper School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Duke University and her master’s in economics from Northwestern University.

She now lives in Pasadena, CA with her husband, dog, and cat, and cherishes the ever-decreasing amount of time her young adult sons spend at home. Most commonly, you’ll find her out running, reading, playing games, watching movies, or baking cookies for friends and family. As often as she can, Jennifer arranges groups to join her to cook and serve dinner at the Union Station Homeless Services Family Center. Let her know next time you’re in town and she’ll get you to help!

Emmanuel (he/him) is a Senior Consultant at DRG. He partners with mission-driven leaders around the country to develop and implement the best strategies for growing their organizational capacity and to develop a thriving culture.

Emmanuel comes to DRG with deep experience in program design, strategy development, group facilitation and coaching, as well as change management and organizational learning expertise. Emmanuel’s clients appreciate his balanced approach of analytical capacity paired with a growth mindset and a people-centered orientation to discovering solutions for organizational problems.

Emmanuel has an undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, a graduate degree in Policy, Organizational Behavior and Leadership from Stanford University, and is a SHRM Senior Certified Professional.

Emmanuel lives in Jacksonville, FL with his life partner Rachael and is a devoted father to their three children. He enjoys reading, playing scrabble, watching and playing tennis, and traveling.

Dayna (she/her) is the Director, Engagement Operations at DRG, where she focuses on strengthening and elevating the experience of our client partners, candidates, and DRG team members. Her role allows her to collaborate across sectors and departments, and she genuinely values the chance to connect with so many different people each day.

Known as a true partner, Dayna jumps in wherever she’s needed: whether a project is large, complex, or simply requires a steady hand. She brings a calm, grounded presence, and her mix of big‑picture thinking and strong organizational skills helps teams stay aligned and attentive to detail.

With a background in education, Dayna has spent many years working in Independent Schools. Outside of work, she loves reading, swimming, staying active, and spending time with her family, including her two children and her dog, Avon Barksdale.

Dayna is no stranger to juggling competing priorities, and she understands that clients and candidates often are too. She prides herself on staying adaptable, responsive, and attuned to the evolving needs of the teams she supports. She is committed to delivering the best possible experience to everyone who partners with DRG.

Jess (she/her) is Principal and Managing Director, Executive Search & Transition, where she leads the operations of the search team while managing her own portfolio of executive searches. She works across a wide range of roles and specializes in partnering with organizations in philanthropy, social justice, human services, and the Jewish communal sector.

With nearly 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, including the past six in executive search, Jess is known for her strong relationship‑building skills and her ability to balance big‑picture strategy with deep attention to detail. Clients appreciate her responsiveness, collaborative approach, and steady presence throughout every phase of the search process. She has recently placed several inaugural leaders at newly formed foundations and later partnered with them as they built out their teams, giving her a unique vantage point into organizational growth and structure.

Earlier in her career, Jess served as a Project Manager at Sesame Workshop and later as the Director of the Taproot Foundation’s Advisory Services team, where she led Fortune 500 companies in designing, implementing, and evaluating employee engagement, volunteerism, and talent development programs.

Whether partnering with a longtime client or meeting a new candidate, Jess shows up with intention, empathy, and a genuine commitment to helping leaders and organizations thrive. She holds a BA in Economics from Washington University in St. Louis and an MBA from Columbia Business School. Jess lives in Maplewood, NJ with her family and enjoys time on the tennis courts, skiing in the winter, and gathering around a Mahjong table.

Laura (she/her) is a Senior Consultant at DRG. She has special expertise in identifying and coaching rising stars. She builds strong, diverse pools of candidates, drawing on an extensive network of experienced senior administrators. She delivers continuous advice and administrative support to search committees throughout their search process.

Laura’s clients depend on her to tend to all the details of their search, develop a deep and nuanced understanding of their school communities and to be available every step of the way even after the position has been filled. She is a former teacher, department head, and senior administrator in three independent schools and now serves as a board member of a wonderful arts academy in Connecticut.

Laura is a Connecticut Nutmegger (you can look that up!) who lives in Connecticut with her husband, Fred. She is a kayaker, an avid reader, a pretty good cook, and an exuberant grandmother.

Emily (she/her) is a Research Specialist at DRG and an educator by trade and a learner at heart. She has worked in high school, higher education, and non-profit settings.

At DRG, she is a part of the research team and focuses on searches in the Jewish nonprofit sector. She holds a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Gettysburg College and a master’s degree in curriculum and teaching from Boston University.

Emily lives in Boston and loves to seek out adventures, big and small. She enjoys hiking, running, paddling, crossword puzzling, and curling up with National Geographic magazines.

Shanna (she/her) is a Senior Consultant at DRG, specializing in executive searches across the Jewish communal sector, including synagogue Executive Directors and educational leadership roles such as Heads of School at Jewish day schools. In addition to her extensive work in the Jewish community, she has also supported organizations in the literary arts and other mission-driven fields.

Before joining DRG, Shanna spent 17 years as a high school counselor in large public schools and more than a decade teaching in synagogue religious schools. Throughout her career, she has worked with diverse populations, building meaningful connections and guiding individuals through pivotal life moments. Known for her confidentiality, empathy, and ability to approach challenges from multiple angles, Shanna is a trusted advisor to both clients and candidates.

Rooted in a lifelong commitment to Jewish education and community engagement, Shanna brings deep cultural insight to her work. At DRG, she partners with Jewish communal organizations and schools to identify and engage dynamic, mission-aligned leaders. Clients appreciate her thoughtful, curious, and compassionate approach, and the positive energy she brings to every search.

Based in Minneapolis, Shanna enjoys life with her husband and two children. She is an avid traveler, an enthusiastic foodie always seeking out new restaurants, and a dedicated Peloton enthusiast. She believes deeply in the importance of self‑care and strives to bring balance to every part of her life.

Shanna holds a Master’s of Education in School Counseling. Colleagues and clients describe her as warm, thoughtful, and kind, and value her reliability, strong follow-through, and unwavering dedication.

Natalia (she/her) is a Senior Consultant at DRG, where she leads executive searches and advises nonprofit organizations on building strong leadership teams. She specializes in partnering with human services, healthcare, and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) organizations to identify and attract transformative leaders.

With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit capacity building, recruitment, and program management, Natalia is known for her thoughtful, consultative approach and ability to build trusted relationships with clients and candidates alike. She brings a calm, solutions-oriented presence to complex searches, combining deep listening with strategic clarity to guide organizations through pivotal leadership transitions. Natalia has led executive searches and talent strategy engagements for a range of nonprofit organizations across the human services, healthcare, and IDD sectors. Her clients include organizations such as New York Health Foundation, Arc of New Jersey, United Way of Greater Newark, Birch Family Services, and Public Health Solutions.

Prior to joining DRG, she held roles at the Taproot Foundation and United Way of New York City, where she designed and scaled cross-sector initiatives, advised Fortune 500 companies on pro bono engagement, and strengthened nonprofit infrastructure across NYC and nationally. She holds a B.S. in Management from Binghamton University.

Having lived and worked in New York, Natalia is deeply connected to the city’s nonprofit ecosystem, and brings a global perspective shaped by her immigrant background. Natalia now lives in northern New Jersey with her husband and son. Outside of work, she enjoys beach vacations, baking bread and treats, and traveling near and far for great food.

Clients value Natalia’s steady presence, attention to detail, thoughtful insight, and genuine commitment to the missions and communities they serve.

Patrick (he/him) is a Principal at DRG, partnering with nonprofits, K–12 schools, and higher education institutions on their most critical talent needs.

With 25 years across philanthropy and talent development, Patrick brings hands-on fundraising leadership and strategic talent expertise to his work. His fundraising background gives him a distinct edge: he knows what high-performing teams look like from the inside. He is especially skilled at helping organizations develop integrated approaches to fundraising strategy and team development. Patrick holds a Bachelor’s Degree in public relations and history from the University of North Alabama, and early in his career served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Zambia, working in public health. He is a frequent presenter at national conferences, including AFP, BRIDGE, and CASE.

Patrick has partnered with more than 70 clients across the nonprofit and education sectors. Before joining DRG, he led fundraising programs generating over $200 million at organizations including Sesame Workshop, The Robin Hood Foundation, amfAR: The Foundation for AIDS Research, and Theatreworks USA, among others.

After 25 years in New York City, Patrick recently relocated with his husband Daniel and their two rescue dogs, Rothko and Cherry Bacon, to Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is at work on his debut novel—his fiction has been shortlisted for the Sean O’Faóláin Prize and published in Southword magazine.

Clients trust his strategic insight, warm presence, and genuine investment in the missions they serve.

Alessa (she/her) is Senior Manager, Marketing at DRG, where she oversees and executes the firm’s brand and marketing strategy. She leads firmwide marketing initiatives and oversees the firm’s full portfolio of brand, digital, and marketing assets, partnering closely with senior leaders to align marketing efforts with DRG’s strategic goals.

She is known for her collaborative style, strategic perspective, and ability to move projects from concept to execution. Drawing on experience spanning social media, public relations, web development, graphic design, and event planning, Alessa pairs a strong aesthetic instinct with a practical, solutions-oriented mindset. She helps teams refine projects, build systems, and communicate their work effectively.

At DRG, Alessa keeps internal operations running smoothly, creating templates, processes, and systems that make deliverables polished and consistent. She also shapes how the firm presents its work to clients, ensuring communications are clear, professional, and impactful.

Born in Quezon City, Philippines, and raised in St. Augustine, Florida, Alessa is a proud Florida State University graduate (Go Noles!). She and her partner reside in Charlotte and revolve around their Shih-Tzu, Winnie. Outside of work, she enjoys all things pop culture, reading, cooking and baking, crocheting, and watching Formula 1.

Kat (she/her) is a Project Administrator at DRG, where she supports the operational backbone of multiple searches, client engagements, and internal functions across the firm. She ensures that every project is structured, efficient, and provides a positive, professional experience for both clients and candidates. Kat has contributed to projects across all sectors and roles that DRG serves, and she is proud to support so many mission‑driven organizations as they grow in vision, scope, and talent to deepen their positive impact on our world.

Kat is known for her exceptional organization, responsiveness, and a consistently positive attitude. She manages complex logistics, scheduling, and materials with great care and thoughtfulness. Colleagues describe her as collaborative, solutions‑oriented, and highly dependable. Her coordination keeps teams aligned, while her warm and approachable presence contributes to a smooth and uplifting team dynamic. These strengths make her a trusted partner in delivering efficient, high‑quality execution across every project she supports, both internally and externally.

Kat grew up in Oklahoma City and now happily calls Durango, Colorado home. She brings a background in reproductive health, rights, and justice through her work as a community organizer and board member, alongside experience supporting talent acquisition functions within some of the world’s fastest‑growing companies. She is passionate about food justice and regenerative agriculture in the American Southwest, and she carries that commitment to community and sustainability into her professional and personal life. Kat holds a BA in Sociology & Human Services from Fort Lewis College.

Kat enjoys many artistic projects and crafty endeavors and loves spending time in nature with friends and family. And, of course, loves watching and discussing anything on Bravo.

Omar (he/him) is a Principal at DRG and leads executive searches across the nonprofit sector, with a focus on CEO, Executive Director, and senior leadership roles at organizations working in legal services, community development, education, and social justice.

Omar is known for his clarity, candor, and ability to build trust quickly, with candidates and clients alike. He brings a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership and recruitment, and his background working inside mission-driven organizations shapes how he approaches every search. He listens carefully, moves with intention, and helps boards and search committees make decisions they feel confident in long after the process ends. He holds degrees from the College of Saint Rose and Harvard University. He has developed a reputation for building strong, diverse pipelines and helping organizations think carefully about what they actually need in a leader, not just what they think they want.

Recent clients include the Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, the Clean Slate Initiative, BRIC, and a range of human services, advocacy, and community-centered organizations across the country. He works regularly with boards navigating leadership transitions for the first time, and with organizations that serve communities that have historically been underrepresented in executive search.

Omar grew up in Bushwick, Brooklyn, and now lives in Ossining, New York, where he also serves as Deputy Mayor. At home, he and his wife are kept busy by their two young daughters. Outside of work, you’ll find him somewhere in between a wellness kick and a very good meal.

Marilyn (she/her) has served as a Senior Advisor at DRG since 2021, where she contributes to the professional development of talent consultants and provides guidance across a wide range of searches. She is known as a trusted connector and talent spotter, bringing deep perspective and decades of experience to her advisory role.

Prior to joining DRG, Marilyn was President of Machlowitz Consultants, Inc. from 1997 to 2021, where she conducted leadership searches for major foundations and nonprofits, including the Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Earlier in her career, she led the corporate board placement service at Catalyst and worked in human resources for several purpose-driven corporations. She is also the author of three books on business and behavior, including Workaholics.

Marilyn earned her Ph.D. from Yale University and her A.B. from Princeton University. Born in Philadelphia and now based in Manhattan, she enjoys traveling and volunteering in her free time.

Sterling (he/him) is a Consultant at DRG. He facilitates searches for wide variety of leadership roles, with a specific focus and expertise on financial roles. He’s successfully placed CFOs, VPs of Finance, Controllers, and Directors of Finance for organizations across the nonprofit sector.

Sterling takes a holistic approach to every search, leveraging his expertise in organizational behavior and nonprofit strategy to find dynamic candidates who fit seamlessly with an organization’s mission, culture, and strategic objectives. His thoughtful curiosity allows him to quickly understand the unique leadership challenges each organization is trying to solve, while simultaneously building trust with both clients and candidates.

Sterling leads searches across the nonprofit spectrum. Recent engagements include Community Capital New York, Ocean Conservancy, Asphalt Green, and Solar United Neighbors.

Prior to joining DRG, Sterling earned his Master of Business Administration from Ohio State University, and currently holds a SHRM-CP certification. He lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota where he passionately (and loudly!) cheers on his beloved Minnesota United FC.

Alexa New is the Chief Operating Officer at DRG Consulting. In her role, she leads firm-wide strategy and operations across people, systems, culture, growth, and special initiatives, building the infrastructure that helps teams do their best work and clients receive exceptional service.

Throughout her career, Alexa has worked at the intersection of strategy, operations, fundraising, and social impact. Her experience spans the nonprofit, philanthropy, health and human services, and social responsibility sectors, including serving as Chief of Staff and Senior Vice President of Strategy for a large health and human services organization. She is especially passionate about helping organizations translate ambitious ideas into practical strategies, stronger systems, and lasting impact.

Alexa brings creativity, clarity, and a strong sense of connection to everything she does. She loves turning complex ideas into meaningful action, building cultures where people can thrive, and creating thoughtful experiences that bring teams together and move organizations forward.

She lives in Cleveland with her husband and daughter. Outside of work, Alexa serves as PTA President at her daughter’s elementary school, where the PTA earned National School of Excellence recognition for its family-school partnership and engagement efforts. She also loves museum-hopping and bringing people together as a party and experience planner and host known for creating memorable, highly themed celebrations.

Chasity (she/her) is a Consultant at DRG. She has a great passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She is driven by youth and communities and helping them to find their passions and purpose, gifts and talents. She is enamored by one’s “why” as she believes it is the tool to propel one’s future and the success they desire. Chasity appreciates the ability to understand clients holistically while assisting them in finding the right fit within their desired goals. Having worked for nonprofit organizations for over 10 years, it is with great conviction that Chasity implements the values of this agency.

Chasity attended the University of Missouri where she holds a BA in English with an emphasis in creative writing, a minor in Theatre, and certificate in Multicultural Studies. Because of its ability to cross into almost any field (and beyond), Chasity is excited to have begun her Master’s in Social Work.

In her free time, you can find Chasity nerding out to anime, volunteering in the community, watching a predictable rom-com, watching/playing sports, singing, dancing or with a new novel.

Kennedy (she/her) is a Senior Consultant at DRG, where she leads searches for CEOs, Executive Directors, and senior program, strategy, and operations roles. She works primarily with nonprofits in the social justice, education and youth, and criminal legal sectors. Kennedy also contributes to DRG’s organizational consulting work, leading trainings on Interviewing with Reduced Bias and Effective Transitions.

Trained as a sociologist, Kennedy brings a thoughtful lens to executive search, helping clients identify leaders who will strengthen organizational culture and advance mission. Her Ph.D. research at the University of Michigan examined racial identity development among Black college students, a perspective she applies to understanding how leaders shape — and are shaped by — the organizations they join.

Kennedy’s recent search clients include the National Council of Nonprofits, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, CAMBA, and the Hewlett Foundation. Before joining DRG, she worked in program management for a nonprofit supporting first-generation and low-income college students.

Originally from Wichita, Kansas, Kennedy lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she enjoys cooking, reading, watching women’s basketball, and competitive reality TV. She is a member of Geaux Girl Giving, a giving circle supporting Black women-led nonprofits in Southeast Louisiana.

Clients value her warmth, curiosity, and ability to design search processes that feel authentic to each organization.

Marc (he/him) is a Consultant at DRG. He is an Industrial/Organizational Psychologist who is passionate about helping organizations integrate empirically supported methodologies into the management of human capital. Marc provides structured approaches in a flexible manner.

Marc’s clients rely on him to provide extensive insight about candidates that can’t be found on their resume. With over ten years of experience in a myriad of industries as an expert consultant and thought leader, Marc excels at driving business objectives through optimizing selection, development, engagement, and retention of employees, using people analytics, assessment, and psychology.

Marc lives in Philadelphia with his wife and two daughters. He enjoys trying new restaurants, eats ice cream every day and spends time on the golf course in search of the perfect swing.

Eduardo (he/him) is a Senior Research & Business Intelligence Analyst at DRG, specializing in the analysis of information that drives strategic planning and program evaluations. Based in Mexico City, he leads the integration of quantitative and qualitative data to support foundations and mission-driven organizations in implementing strategic goals and conducting in-depth assessments. Through this work, he has become known for his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to precision in generating actionable insights.

With ten years of experience in data analysis and market research, Eduardo excels at connecting qualitative findings with quantitative data to uncover evidence-based patterns. He leverages this expertise to design interactive dashboards and surveys that enhance both client engagements and internal operations. In addition, he oversees internal data management at DRG, ensuring that operational information remains accurate, up to date, and a reliable resource for the firm. He has supported organizations such as the Greater Cleveland Funders Collaborative, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Starting Point, using data-driven insights to strengthen planning, evaluation, and decision-making.

Eduardo holds a degree in Economics from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) and brings a strong analytical foundation paired with a genuine interest in using data to support positive social change.

Outside of work, Eduardo is an astronomy enthusiast who enjoys observing the night sky and staying up to date with advancements in space exploration. He finds balance through travel and time in nature, and enjoys cooking and spending time with his partner Wendy, as well as with family and friends. He is also actively involved in local community efforts, consistently seeking opportunities to contribute to the well-being of those around him.

Darcy (she/her) is a Finance Director at DRG, where she leads the firm’s financial operations with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and scalability. She plays a key role in supporting the organization’s growth by ensuring strong financial infrastructure, reporting, and day-to-day financial health.

With a decade of accounting experience, Darcy brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to financial management. She focuses on improving workflows and strengthening financial visibility to support informed decision-making. As a one-person finance department, she owns the full financial function, ensuring every detail is accounted for while building structure and consistency to support a growing firm.

At DRG, Darcy oversees budgeting, cash flow management, payroll, and financial reporting, while partnering with leadership to support planning and decision-making. She has streamlined workflows, reduced system redundancies, and implemented improvements that enhance visibility into the company’s financial performance and position the organization for continued growth.

Darcy lives in the small town of Lowell, Arkansas, with her husband. Together, they have three children and a labradoodle, Milo. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and discovering great food and music along the way.

Halle (she/her) is a Consultant at DRG and a researcher, informaticist, and trauma-informed community practitioner focused on advancing sustainable, systems-level change. She works on consulting engagements that sit at the intersection of health and social systems, with an emphasis on improving access, equity, and outcomes across communities. Through this work, she has become known for integrating research, data, and lived experience to support more effective and equitable solutions.

Prior to joining DRG, Halle worked across Greater Cleveland as a mental health practitioner, mixed-methods researcher, and strategic data analyst. Her work has centered on projects that promote multidimensional health access and equity, bringing together data, research, and community-informed approaches. She brings expertise in trauma-informed practice and supports organizations such as Land of Lincoln Legal Aid, Lakewood Community Services Center, and the MacArthur Foundation, in using data and research to drive more equitable outcomes.

Halle holds a Master of Social Work and a Certificate in Trauma-Informed Practice from the Mandel School at Case Western Reserve University, as well as a Master of Public Health from the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. She is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Ohio and also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Science and English, with focuses in Neuroscience and Journalism, from Case Western Reserve University.

Halle lives in Cleveland Heights, with her cat, Mochi.

Akshita (she/her) is a Senior Consultant at DRG, where she partners with nonprofits and advocacy organizations to strengthen talent and organizational strategy. Her work focuses on strategy formation, scenario planning and financial modeling, compensation strategy, transition planning, and the development of capabilities and competencies. She frequently collaborates with organizations advancing social justice, including those focused on reproductive equity, racial equity, and advocacy.

Akshita is known for her thoughtful, data-informed approach and her ability to anticipate what’s ahead. She helps organizations think through long-term implications, navigate complex challenges, and identify opportunities for growth. With nearly a decade of experience across domestic and international nonprofit and community-building work, along with five years in talent and organizational consulting, she brings a broad perspective to her work. Clients value her attention to detail, steady project management, and her commitment to embedding equity throughout the process.

Akshita’s recent clients include COPE Family Support Center, Inc., YW Boston, Reproductive Equity Now, and organizations in the climate advocacy and justice space. She has also contributed to projects with the National Council of Nonprofits, the Clean Slate Initiative, and State Innovation Exchange.

Originally from Hyderabad, India and Aurora, Illinois, Akshita now lives in Boston, Massachusetts. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and reading, interests shaped in part by living in four different countries. She is an enthusiastic animal lover and finds joy in spending time with her husband, their dog, and her friends.

Abby (she/her) is a Consultant at DRG, where she focuses on driving positive systemic change in the nonprofit sector. She supports consulting engagements that center on community engagement, project management, and helping organizations advance their missions in collaborative and effective ways. Through this work, she has become known for building strong client relationships and supporting organizations in developing collaborative solutions that enhance operations and leverage data for meaningful community impact.

Abby brings experience working with a range of nonprofits to strengthen how organizations serve their communities and operate more effectively. Her approach emphasizes partnership, practical implementation, and aligning strategies with mission-driven goals. She has supported organizations such as the Kettering Foundation, the Greater Cleveland Funder’s Collaborative, and Starting Point, helping them develop collaborative solutions that improve operations and advance mission-driven outcomes.

Abby holds a dual Master’s degree in Social Work and Nonprofit Organizations from Case Western Reserve University, where she was a Mandel Leadership Fellow. She also earned a dual Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Medicine, Health, and Society from Vanderbilt University.

Outside of work, Abby enjoys sewing, baking, and exploring opportunities to grow her community in Seattle.

Merav (she/her) is a Consultant at DRG. She brings five years of experience in executive search for nonprofit organizations across a variety of roles, including candidate sourcing, interview process development, and client management. Her recent clients have included organizations like Camp Yavneh, Shalom School, and Project Sunshine.

Clients rely on her to keep searches organized and streamlined, and she has particular expertise working with organizations focused on community building and youth development. Merav cares deeply about both the client and the candidate experience and is committed to supporting candidates throughout every stage of the process and ensuring they feel set up for success. She is detail‑oriented and relationship‑driven, and enjoys building strong partnerships with clients and candidates to understand their needs and help them reach their goals.

Merav is based in New York City with her partner and their dog, Maggie. She is an alumna of Barnard College, where she majored in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, baking anything from apple pie to sourdough bread, reading, and working on needlepoint projects.

Staci (she/her) is Principal and co-lead of the Independent Schools Practice at DRG. She comes from a family of educators and is driven to help great schools become stronger by recruiting and developing transformational leaders. She brings more than 30 years of experience across K–12 and higher education, with leadership roles spanning college counseling, teaching, admissions, nonprofit management and fundraising, executive coaching, and board service.

Before joining DRG, Staci led more than 100 senior-level and Head of School searches over seven years at a global search firm. Earlier, she served as College Mentor at the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation, Director of Upper School Counseling at Prep for Prep, and a fundraising leader at two New York City charter schools. She taught history and English for over a decade and held leadership roles at Groton School and Concord Academy.

Staci holds an A.B. in History and Psychology from Bowdoin College and an M.A.T. in Social Studies from Brown University.

Staci has served as a trustee at Montgomery School, St. Andrew’s School, Bowdoin College, and Belmont Day School, including as Board Chair at Montgomery and Alumni Council President at Bowdoin. Based in greater Boston, she advises schools and associations on governance and equitable search practices. Outside of her work, she enjoys theater, music, exercise, traveling, and time with family.

Michelle (she/her) is Principal and Managing Director of Strategy & Organizational Effectiveness at DRG where she leads the firm’s Organizational Consulting practice and serves as a go-to partner for nonprofit CEOs and boards particularly on strategy, organizational design, leadership transitions, succession planning, and executive coaching. Michelle brings more than two decades of experience leading education and youth-focused nonprofit organizations through significant growth, strategic reinvention, leadership transitions, and board development as chief innovation officer, chief strategy and advancement officer, and executive director.

Colleagues and clients value Michelle’s thoughtful partnership, clear thinking, and deep commitment to mission-driven organizations. She is known for asking insightful questions, listening closely to leaders and teams, and helping organizations move from big ideas to clear decisions and meaningful action. Recently she has led engagements focused on strategic planning, organizational redesign, executive coaching, succession and transition planning, and facilitation across the sector with organizations such as National Council of Nonprofits, Young Community Developers, Campaign Legal Center, SEO, DC Bar Foundation, Amalgamated Foundation, and Tipping Point Community.

She earned her BA from American University and her MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. She is an alumna of Leadership Greater Washington and the Equity Lab’s Seeding Disruption Fellowship and was recognized by the Washington Business Journal with a 40 Under 40 award. Michelle is also a trained executive coach through the Co-Active Training Institute and brings a practical, supportive approach to helping leaders navigate complex moments.

Michelle is a long-time DC area resident and currently lives in Silver Spring, Maryland with her husband Onuka and their two daughters. She currently serves as a board member of Kellogg Women@EMBA and as a member of the Chief Member Advisory Council.

Carole (she/her) is the Senior Advisor for DRG’s Interim Placement Service. Carole has worked in politics, policy, philanthropy, nonprofits, media, advocacy, and academia. She is an Adjunct Professor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. Carole has successfully led nonprofits as Executive Director (MOUSE, WNET Education, Women Creating Change) and Interim Executive Director (One to World, Nontraditional Employment for Women, Edible Schoolyard). She has also worked in philanthropy (Markle Foundation) and spent eight years in policy and program leadership at the U.S. Department of Education.

Carole received her B.A. in Economics from the American University and her J.D. from Vermont Law School. Carole lives in Queens with her husband and twin boys.

Katrine (she/her) is the Research Director at DRG, where she leads a team of four researchers supporting executive searches across all sectors. She specializes in full-cycle recruitment for nonprofit and foundation leadership, including CEO, senior program, strategy, and operations roles.

With nearly 20 years of national and international executive search experience, Katrine combines strategic insight with meticulous attention to detail. She is known for seeing both the big picture and the steps needed to execute it successfully, mentoring colleagues, and proactively anticipating client and candidate needs. Her colleagues and clients rely on her ability to uncover exceptional candidates and align their passions and experience with organizational missions.

Before joining DRG, Katrine worked with search firms conducting high-level recruitment domestically and abroad. She discovered her love of research while studying Finance and Psychology at James Madison University. A former 100-ton U.S. Coast Guard Captain, she now brings precision, insight, and a proactive approach to every search.

Outside of work, Katrine loves traveling, gardening, swimming in the ocean, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

Cynthia (she/her) is a Reference Specialist at DRG. She supports in identifying diverse leadership and conducting confidential reference interviews for nonprofit and independent school leaders nationwide. She is highly skilled at building trust and insight through careful, attentive listening in reference conversations.

Her background spans education and the arts, including developing music curricula, directing choral ensembles, and performing with major orchestras in New York and Philadelphia. Cynthia holds graduate degrees in music and has completed advanced continuing education programs at Harvard Graduate School of Education and Princeton University.

Locally, she volunteers with the Lawrence Hopewell Trail, supporting safe, equitable and enjoyable access to outdoor recreation, health, and wellness. Originally from the Carolinas, she lives in Lawrenceville, New Jersey with her family. She enjoys exploring new recipes, cooking delicious meals with family and friends, gardening, and exploring hiking trails from Appalachia to Maine.

Jim (he/him) is a Senior Advisor at DRG and Founder of Wickenden Associates, an affiliate of DRG. Having been the CEO of one of the premier education executive search firms in the United States, Jim brings unparalleled experience and networks to best serve clients. He approaches each search with flexibility and openness that responds to the individual needs and concerns of schools and their leaders.

Before founding Wickenden Associates, Jim served as the Dean of Admissions at Princeton University and Director of Student and Alumni Affairs at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

As a former member of eight boards of independent schools with a wide range of missions and resource levels, Jim also knows firsthand the responsibilities shouldered by today’s trustees and knows how to guide boards through tough transition processes and on good governance practices.

Jim lives in Princeton, New Jersey, and enjoys reading enlightening books. He’s a lifelong golfer and has developed an affinity for finding golf balls, having found over 1,000 in the past three years.

Marissa (she/her) is a Senior Consultant at DRG, focused on helping nonprofits and government organizations strengthen communities through effective services and strategic solutions. She supports consulting engagements that address complex social challenges and improve outcomes for individuals, families, and communities, working with nonprofits, local governments, and state agencies across the country. Through this work, she has built a reputation for facilitating dynamic conversations, engaging diverse stakeholders, and guiding organizations through complex decision-making processes.

Drawing on experience in community development, leadership development, and consulting, Marissa brings a thoughtful, tailored approach to her work—helping leaders make sense of their data, align around a shared vision, and implement sustainable, outcomes-driven strategies. Clients value her ability to drive alignment and navigate complexity with clarity and intention. She has partnered broadly across the nonprofit and public sectors, supporting organizations such as the Raymond John Wean Foundation, Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, to develop strategies that improve services and strengthen communities.

Marissa holds a Master’s in Social Science Administration (Community and Social Development) from Case Western Reserve University and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Willamette University.

Outside of work, Marissa volunteers with City Dogs Cleveland and enjoys reading, playing board games, and spending time with her husband, Patrick, and their two cats.