Dana François is a visionary leader catalyzing philanthropy, innovative finance, sustainable development, and strategic partnerships in Haiti and globally. She approaches her work through the lenses of systemic root causes, equity, community engagement, and leadership. At the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Dana steers an extensive economic development and food systems portfolio, championing family economic security through community-driven, sustainable economic development and impact investment catalyzing. This work, anchored in Haiti, has led to tangible improvements in the lives of families, and extends to innovative initiatives across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
Dana's strategic foresight and bridge-building leadership skills in complex geopolitical landscapes have been pivotal in co-initiating and co-expanding initiatives like the Haiti Food Systems Alliance and the Haiti Peer-Learning Network, which unite a global network of stakeholders to foster sustainable development and equity. These initiatives bring together over 100+ global actors, demonstrating her exceptional ability to foster uncommon collaboration toward audacious goals in a rapidly shifting environment.
As the first woman and youngest Board Chair of Haiti's $25M Biodiversity Fund, Chair of Governance and DEI at NEID Global, and Board Member at Root Capital, Dana drives inclusive, modern governance with visionary grit and grace. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership in transforming organizations toward modern and inclusive management frameworks, committed to the highest standards of stewardship, equity, collaboration, and excellence. Her deep commitment to systemic change and sustainability underpins her efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and inclusive economic growth.
Dana holds an MBA from Babson College and has completed executive education at Harvard Kennedy School. Beyond her professional pursuits, she embraces a vegan lifestyle, enjoys baking and food photography, and cherishes time with her family and community, including her dogs, Myra and Fox.
Resilience and the SDGs informs her future-thinking approach to driving meaningful change in volatile environments.
Beyond her professional life, Dana is committed to a vegan lifestyle, reflecting her values of sustainability and compassion. She values quality time with her family and enjoys creative projects like baking and food photography. This balance of global engagement and personal values underscores Dana's holistic approach to fostering positive change with her community, loved ones, allies, and colleagues in small and big ways.