Whether you’re looking to recommend a grant for a donor-advised fund, apply for a grant from one of our many grantmaking funds, or anything in between, you can rest assured knowing our Grants and Data Administrator Heather Lee is working hard to make sure everything is received, processed, and administered seamlessly. Having worked with database systems for schools, higher education institutions, and other nonprofits, Heather brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role and helps our team serve you and your needs! Get to know Heather, her Indiana roots, her role as Grants and Data Administrator, and what she likes best about working at Community Foundation Boulder County.
Can you start by telling us about yourself?
I spent half my life in Indiana, where I attended college and developed a lifelong love of basketball. Once I learned to ski in the sludge of California, I became focused on moving to Colorado. I have lived in Boulder County over 20 years. I have two daughters in college, one at CU and the other in New York. I have two obnoxious doodles that I love taking on the open space trails in the area.
My background is in higher education, and I always gravitated towards working with database systems. I have served as an administrator and a consultant focusing on improving data quality and streamlining processes for schools, nonprofits and higher education institutions.
Why the community foundation?
With my background, I had experience partnering with foundations and appreciate the unique role they have in a community. I love the mix of fundraising and nonprofit support that takes place at the community foundation. As much as I enjoy the database projects, I am also fortunate to have a direct role in helping nonprofit organizations receive funding by managing the grant processing.
What do you like best about your role as Grants & Data Administrator?
The work is truly interesting and rewarding. Everyday offers new problems to solve and processes to improve. I enjoy the challenge and collaborating with teammates to continually advance our operations.
Which of our values most resonates with you and why? (humanity, trust, collaboration)
Although we practice all three of these values daily, trust is a huge component of my role. By being responsible for the quality of our data and the administration of our grants, I help build trust in our operations for our staff, donors, and the community.
Any favorite community foundation memories you’d like to share?
Our software user conference is held at the Mall of America every July. I have attended with several of my colleagues these past two years, and it has been a wonderful opportunity to meet community foundation staff from across the country. I enjoy the chance to get to know my colleagues better and to see who can brave riding roller coasters.
What’s your favorite activity in Boulder County?
I enjoy learning to cross country ski at North Boulder Park and attending CU women’s basketball games.
