The Women’s Fund of Central Indiana named author, columnist and speaker Tamara Winfrey-Harris as its new president Dec.6.
The Women’s Fund of Central Indiana is a special interest fund of the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF).
“The Advisory Board is delighted to appoint Tamara as the President,” Tavonna Harris Askew, board chair for the organization, said in a statement. “She brings passion for issues affecting women and girls, broad networks and strong leadership skills to lead the Women’s Fund in its next phase of growth.”
Winfrey-Harris is also currently the vice president of people, culture and brand for CICF. In her former role as vice president of community leadership and effective philanthropy, Winfrey-Harris oversaw service to more than 500 donors, 475 agency endowment funds, 122 scholarships and various other funds totaling around $600 million.
She is an award-winning author of two books: “The Sisters Are Alright: Changing the Broken Narrative of Black Women in America” and “Dear Black Girl: Letters from Your Sisters on Stepping into Your Power.” Winfrey-Harris has also been featured in The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Los Angeles Time, Ms. magazine and has given keynote speeches on issues of gender, race and social justice at college campuses across the country.
“I am honored to have this opportunity to use my abilities to make this community a better place for women and girls.” Winfrey-Harris said in a statement. “I promise to listen, to learn and be guided by the needs, experiences and voices of women and girls in all their intersections and complexities.”
Winfrey-Harris, a Gary native, also sits on the boards of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy and ACLU of Indiana. She is a member of the Circle City chapter of The Links and the Alpha Mu Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.
Winfrey-Harris will step into her new role Jan. 9, 2023. She succeeds founding present Jennifer Pope Baker, who has led the Women’s Fund for the last 23 years. During the organization’s search for a new president, Deborah Hearn Smith, retired CEO of Girl Scouts of Central Indiana, served as interim president. Smith will continue her duties as interim president through Jan. 7, 2023.
Contact staff writer Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on Twitter @chloe_mcgowanxx.
