The ladies are definitely moving up in the North Texas world of fundraising. For the past seven years, Dena Jackson has been serving as senior VP of grants and research for Texas Women’s Foundation, formerly known to the world as the Dallas Women’s Foundation. During that time she has been “directing the organization’s research, advocacy and grantmaking. Jackson’s leadership in producing groundbreaking research has helped to position the Foundation as a catalyst for statewide social and economic change. The Foundation’s signature series of Gender Matters® Research – which gives comprehensive insights into the progress of Texas women in employment, earnings, health insurance, education, poverty and leadership opportunity – provides decision-makers and lawmakers critical data to inform policies, practices and programs in the state.”
TWF President/CEO Ros Dawson Thompson has announced that Dena has been named the organization chief operating officer.
According to Ros, “For seven years, Dena has been a guiding force within the Foundation, and her leadership has been instrumental in securing our reputation as reliable and trusted supporter and advocate for women, girls and their families in Texas. “Her new position as COO honors her many contributions and acknowledges the important role she will play in propelling Texas Woman’s Foundation forward with a focus on empowering strong women to build a better world.”
In her new position, Dena will “oversee all operations and lead the organization’s execution on its vision to Transform Texas for Women and Girls, supporting and managing team leaders in finance, development, programs and communications. She will work in deep collaboration with Texas Women’s Foundation CEO and staff, as well as Board members, donors, partners and allies, to advance economic security and leadership opportunities for women and girls through research, advocacy, innovative programs and grantmaking.”
Before joining the Foundation, Dena was the Dallas Regional Chamber VP of education and spent 10 years in the nonprofit arena and 12 years in health care administration.
A Texas native, Dena earned her doctoral degree in health studies at Texas Woman’s University.
* Photo provided by Texas Women's Foundation