Roy Williams

Roy Williams joined the Foundation in 2010. During his time at the Foundation, Roy has overseen the streamlining of grantmaking programs as well as the Foundation’s transition to an online grantmaking platform. Roy has held numerous leadership roles with PEAK Grantmaking as a member of the network’s conference planning committee and as Co-Chair of its 2017 conference. He currently serves on the steering committee for the Youth Transition Funders Group, a national network of grantmakers whose mission is to help all youth make a successful transition to adulthood by the age of 25.

Born in Los Angeles and raised in Memphis, Roy moved to his parents’ hometown, New Orleans, to attend Tulane University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in African and Diaspora Studies. Roy also holds a Master of Public Administration and a Certificate in Nonprofit and Strategic Philanthropy Management from the John Lewis Public Administration Program at Tulane University.

Before joining the Foundation, Roy worked in the Mayor’s Office of Intergovernmental Relations at the City of New Orleans, working on various issues at the federal and state levels. He brings experience in grantmaking as well as identifying federal and state resources and partnerships.

As Director of Grantmaking, Roy works to streamline and improve grantmaking processes to ensure that the Foundation maintains high responsiveness to community needs. He also manages the marketing and implementation of fiscal sponsorships, employee and individual assistance funds, scholarship funds, and agency funds.

Roy has spent his entire career working to improve community conditions in the public and nonprofit sectors. He is dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations and causes they are passionate about. With a background in philanthropy and government and extensive knowledge of grantmaking processes, he is known a skilled strategist in identifying and investing in innovative programs and initiatives that make a difference. He has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by nonprofits and is committed to helping them find the resources and support they need to succeed. Roy is also known for his collaborative and inclusive approach to decision-making. He works closely with stakeholders and community members to ensure that funding decisions are aligned with the needs and priorities of the communities they serve.

Roy is committed to creating positive change and inspiring the next generation of philanthropists and grantmakers.