Meet The Female Leaders Forging a New Path For Philanthropy: Celebrating Women’s History Month

Throughout Women’s History Month, we’ll be sharing inspiring stories, important insights and words of wisdom from some of the female leaders who are paving the way for the philanthropic, wealth management and technology sectors. We can’t think of a better way to kick off this month than to recognize our own female leaders here at Foundation Source. Their unique skillsets and backgrounds ranging from taxes to client services are the engines behind the work we do to empower people and companies to create a better world through philanthropy. Read on to see what inspires them, the advice they’d give to support other women leaders and how their unique perspectives are forging a new path for the future of philanthropy.

Bonus: An Upcoming Event For Advisors

Our Chief Marketing Officer Hannah Shaw Grove will be a guest speaker at the 10th Annual Invest In Women Conference, the largest women’s conference in the advisor world. A commitment to serving the unique needs of female clients, this event will include thought-provoking discussions led by industry experts shaping the future of financial advising and champion the needs of female clients.?This inclusive event welcomes all to participate in driving excellence and innovation in the financial industry.

Tina Iorfino

Client Accounts Payable Coordinator, Supervisor

When did you start working at Foundation Source and what is your favorite part of your job?

I started working for Foundation Source in 2011. The best part of my job has been helping my team grow and achieve their goals. As I have grown personally through the years and taken on more responsibility, it has been so great to see other people grow alongside me. I really enjoy interacting with colleagues in different departments and assisting with resolutions for account and transaction issues. I also love the challenge of learning new processes and brainstorming to improve workflows.

How can women support other women in their organizations?

Women can support each other in their organizations by celebrating their accomplishments, actively supporting their ideas and providing mentorship. My current team is made up of predominantly women, including my manager and our COO, which I find to be empowering and inspiring.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

The advice I would give the next generation of women in business (including my two daughters) is to follow your dreams, work hard and always learn from your mistakes. Our mistakes and how we fix them are where we grow, and these are the moments that shape us and strengthen us in the workforce and in life.

What does it mean to you to be a female in a leadership role?

I take my leadership role as a female very seriously. It is a privilege and honor to be in a decision-making position and to know that my thoughts and ideas are a consideration in how we run our business. I am committed to continuing to learn and make a difference through mentoring and encouraging others. Leadership, for me, is about seeing my team holistically, and helping others around me to achieve their goals.

How do you think Foundation Source benefits from having women in leadership?

I think Foundation Source benefits from having women in leadership because diverse leadership teams lead to better decision making and overall success. Female leaders bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table.

Eranda Karamuca

Tax Services Director

When did you start working at Foundation Source and what is your favorite part of your job?

I started working at Foundation Source in January 2015, and my favorite part of my job is helping clients navigate the complexities of tax compliance so they can focus on making an impact. I also enjoy mentoring and supporting my team’s professional growth. Every day, I get to work with inspiring people who are passionate about philanthropy, which makes my work incredibly fulfilling.

How long have you worked in philanthropy or the nonprofit sector? What drew you to it?

Joining Foundation Source in 2015 was my first role in philanthropy. What drew me in was the opportunity to combine my technical tax expertise with a mission-driven industry. Knowing that my work helps private foundations maximize their charitable impact makes it incredibly rewarding.

How can women support other women in their organizations?

Women can support each other by celebrating successes, advocating for one another and sharing opportunities for growth. Mentorship is also key – offering guidance, advice and encouragement can make a big difference. Most importantly, creating a culture where women feel heard and valued helps everyone thrive.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Believe in your abilities! Don’t be afraid to take risks, ask for what you want and advocate for yourself.

What does it mean to you to be a female in a leadership role?

Being a female in a leadership role means balancing work and family, and I’m grateful that Foundation Source gives me the opportunity to excel in both areas. It’s about finding a balance between professional goals and personal life, and showing that with the right support, women can thrive as leaders at work and at home.

How do you think Foundation Source benefits from having women in leadership?

Having women in leadership across the company builds a culture of collaboration and inclusion. It’s inspiring to see women in leadership across all departments at Foundation Source. Women bring diverse ideas, perspectives and problem-solving approaches, which helps us be stronger as a company.

Theresa Kenny

Senior Director of Client Finance

When did you start working at Foundation Source and what is your favorite part of your job?

I joined Foundation Source in September 2023. There is so much about my job that I like but at the top of the list is the culture of collaboration.

How long have you worked in philanthropy or the nonprofit sector? What drew you to it?

Foundation Source was my first exposure to philanthropy. I was drawn by the opportunity to give back to the community and work alongside passionate clients and co-workers. Foundation Source specifically interested me because of its diverse C-Suite, including so many strong women.

How can women support other women in their organizations?

Be open minded and supportive. We are much stronger and successful when we work together to reach a common goal.

What is your favorite book, podcast or product from women creators?

I am an avid reader so it’s hard to pick just one favorite book. Here are a few of my favorites that highlight women: The Red Tent, Lessons in Chemistry, and The Women.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Jump in – don’t just lean in!

What does it mean to you to be a female in a leadership role?

I hope my role here inspires and empowers women both within Foundation Source and those whom we work with to strive for leadership positions of their own.

How do you think Foundation Source benefits from having women in leadership?

Women have passion and build trust. They switch priorities quickly and are self-starters, bringing fresh perspectives.

What’s the most meaningful experience you’ve had with a nonprofit or donor?

My first Relay For Life 24 stands out. So many are affected by cancer, including my own family. Coming together as a community and directly contributing to a cause I care about was personally fulfilling.

Have you had any female role models that have inspired you throughout your career?

YES! I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by strong, smart and hardworking women, including so many at Foundation Source. My Mom inspires me to this day with her ability to do anything.

Jackie Schwalb, J.D.

Legal Services Associate Director

When did you start working at Foundation Source and what is your favorite part of your job?

I started working at Foundation Source in February of 2016. My favorite part of my job is helping our foundation clients achieve their philanthropic goals.

How can women support other women in their organizations?

By celebrating their achievements and acting as mentors.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Be confident in your knowledge and experience and what you bring to the table.

Have you had any female role models that have inspired you throughout your career?

The women I work with at Foundation Source inspire me every day.

Judith Hirschkorn

Director of Tax and Legal Affairs

When did you start working at Foundation Source and what is your favorite part of your job?

I started working at Foundation Source on November 1, 2010, just a few days before the final tax deadline! My favorite part of my job is helping our clients carry out their philanthropic goals.

How long have you worked in philanthropy or the nonprofit sector? What drew you to it?

I have worked in the nonprofit sector since 2005. I worked in academia at Teachers College, Columbia University for three years after graduating college, while simultaneously working on my master’s degree in school counseling. In 2008, I left academia and worked for a community-based organization, supervising after-school programs designed to help students get into NYC specialized high schools. To put it simply, I enjoy helping people.

How can women support other women in their organizations?

Supporting women in organizations is vital for creating inclusive and empowering work environments. Some ways women can support each other are by mentorship, advocacy, collaboration over competition, and celebrating success.

What does it mean to you to be a female in a leadership role?

Leadership should be defined by capability, not gender. Being a female in a leadership role means leading with strength, empathy and vision, while breaking down barriers for women in the workplace.

How do you think Foundation Source benefits from having women in leadership?

Women bring different experiences, problem-solving approaches and leadership styles, which foster creativity and innovation. A more inclusive leadership team contributes to a positive work environment, increasing employee satisfaction, engagement and retention.

Nancy Macauda

Associate Director, Account Services

When did you start working at Foundation Source and what is your favorite part of your job?

I started working at Foundation Source in 2014. Without a doubt, my favorite part of the job is meeting our clients during the onboarding process and learning about how their philanthropy will make an impact on our world’s challenges.

How can women support other women in their organizations?

We can show support by taking the time to build connections. These connections strengthen our professional relationships and create a healthier, more collaborative work environment. When we share our stories and experiences, we gain a deeper understanding about one another. No matter your role in the organization, women can authentically champion each other’s unique talents, abilities and contributions.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Never underestimate the breadth or value of your skills. Confidently put yourself in the game and believe in what you have to offer. Hard work, interest and the willingness to take risks, even those that push you beyond your comfort zone, will open doors you never imagined. The knowledge and experience you gain by doing so will be invaluable.

Have you had any female role models that have inspired you throughout your career?

Absolutely! One woman that has thoroughly inspired me, seamlessly balanced many roles, including CEO/President, wife, mother, daughter, sister, volunteer, teacher and friend. Yet no matter how busy she was, she always took the time to be present and genuinely engaged. Seeing her success, I was confident that I could wear many hats too. Inspired by her example, I strive to pay it forward by listening, supporting and uplifting those around me, both in my work at Foundation Source and in my work outside of the office.

Rebecca Jacobs

Senior Marketing Manager Charityvest

When did you start working at Charityvest and what is your favorite part of your job?

I joined the Vennfi team (in partnership with Charityvest ) in late 2021, and it has been my joy to work alongside some of the most generous, innovative humans for the last few years. Now that we’ve joined Foundation Source, I’ve felt so welcomed and supported by our larger team! The best part of my job has been getting to share stories of inspiring members of our community and partnering with other organizations to further our shared mission of catalyzing generosity.

How long have you worked in philanthropy or the nonprofit sector? What drew you to it?

I went to school for entrepreneurship, and my experience there taught me how interconnected business and social impact can and should be. For the last seven years, I’ve worked on both sides of philanthropy (serving nonprofits and now donors), and have been driven by my desire to help facilitate people doing good work.

How can women support other women in their organizations?

I’m grateful for the women who have supported me throughout my professional journey. Women who have grabbed coffee with me, listened to challenges I’ve faced, shared ideas and advocated on my behalf. Becoming a cheerleader for other women in your organization can make a huge impact on their lives and will help you feel connected.

What is your favorite book, podcast or product from women creators?

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bront? was one of my earliest favorite novels!

What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Different things will be important to you in different chapters of your life. Trust that you know what’s best for you, in each moment, given the information you have available to you. You can and should change your mind along the way.

What does it mean to you to be a female in a leadership role?

It feels natural—those two things go together well! I aspire to lead from a place of authenticity and show up for my colleagues with my entire self.

How do you think Foundation Source benefits from having women in leadership?

Foundation Source is at the forefront of the philanthropic technology sector. A diversity of perspectives designing the philanthropic solutions of the future will set the tone for impact in our communities.

What’s the most meaningful experience you’ve had with a nonprofit or donor?

There have been too many to count. It is incredibly inspiring to walk alongside folks as they envision how to make the world a better place. Every story is unique, but at the heart of each gift is hope. Through philanthropy, we are reminded that change is possible.

Have you had any female role models that have inspired you throughout your career?

I’ve had many, but the one that goes without saying is my mom. She was rooted in a deep sense of purpose, which she embodied through her role as an early childhood educator. I was lucky enough to grow up watching someone who lived her values every day and made a real difference through her work.

Rachel Goldstein

Senior Tax Services Director

When did you start working at Foundation Source and what is your favorite part of your job?

I started with Foundation Source in November 2007. Fun fact – I started on my birthday. I really enjoy speaking with clients and teaching and training accountants.

How long have you worked in philanthropy or the nonprofit sector? What drew you to it?

I have worked in the nonprofit sector for 27 years and have spent 21 years working with private foundations and an additional six years working in other nonprofit entities. Over the years, I have also visited patients in the hospital and volunteered in an interest-free loan society. Philanthropy has always been a part of my family and everyday life. It is an honor to extend it to my work life as well.

How can women support other women in their organizations?

Women can support other women by recognizing the need for flexibility and, as a manager, accommodate that need to the best of my ability.

What is your favorite book, podcast or product from women creators?

My favorite book is Decluttering at the Speed of Life by Dana K. White. She also has a podcast. Her method is based on the understanding that life gets busy, and she shares strategies to eliminate feelings of being overwhelmed in the decluttering process.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women in business?

Strive for perfection while recognizing no one is perfect. Doing your best is exactly what you should expect from yourself.

What does it mean to you to be a female in a leadership role?

It is meaningful to be a role model for young women who are passionate about their work yet still want their families to be a top priority.

How do you think Foundation Source benefits from having women in leadership?

Women are expert multi-taskers with a special ability to get it all done – and done well.

What’s the most meaningful experience you’ve had with a nonprofit or donor?

Developing relationships with foundation representatives. I am grateful for friendships that have been fostered over the years. It is special when clients share the good times and the less-than-good times with me regarding their families and pets. It is especially rewarding when they keep in touch after their role of representing the foundation has ended.

Have you had any female role models that have inspired you throughout your career?

Estee Shor, our chief operating officer, has inspired me in so many ways. I admire her ability to think outside the box and her encouragement for me to do the same. Her passion for improving every process while juggling her work and family life is very motivating.

Want to Work Alongside These Incredible and Talented Women?

If working for a company that is dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion is important to you, check out our?Careers page?to learn more about our current openings.