Leadership Team
Our Team Powers Your Success
With decades of experience and award-winning expertise, we are passionate professionals dedicated to empowering nonprofits. Our skilled team delivers tailored, data-driven solutions that help organizations achieve fundraising and engagement goals and create lasting impact. Explore our profiles below to learn more about our leadership team.
Meet Our Leadership
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Brittany Shaff, bCRE, CFRE
Brittany is the Founder and CEO of Shaff Fundraising Group, bringing 20 years of expertise in fundraising, management, and nonprofit strategy. She has served as a leader in both for-profit SaaS and nonprofit executive positions at organizations such as Johns Hopkins University and the University of Miami. Brittany is an acclaimed speaker and author on digital engagement and technology in nonprofits, with a track record of awards from CASE and other organizations.
Chief Operating Officer
Emily Edens
Emily brings extensive experience in strategic development and operations, having served as Director of Development at First Tee – Greater Baltimore, Program Director at First Tee – San Francisco, and Executive Director of the Golden Gate Park Golf Development Foundation. Her expertise in streamlining processes, program management, and marketing enables her to lead transformative initiatives and drive organizational success.
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Vice President of Reporting and Analytics
Julie Knight, Ph.D.
Dr. Julie Knight is an accomplished leader in higher education advancement, specializing in team development, strategic planning, and data analytics. Dr. Knight has held pivotal positions at organizations such as Carnegie Mellon University, University of Miami, and Johns Hopkins University & Medicine. Dr. Knight is published and award-winning, recognized for her contributions to the field of philanthropy and higher education advancement.
Vice President of Marketing
Emily Schoen
Emily is a seasoned marketing and data analytics expert specializing in design visualization and digital strategy. She is an award-winning visualization expert and has held leadership roles at prestigious organizations, including Cornell University and the Seattle Seahawks. Her unique blend of skills and experience drives data-driven decision-making and strategic marketing initiatives.
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Director of Reporting and Analytics
Izzy Bartolotta
Izzy brings a wealth of knowledge in data analysis, revenue reporting, and performance measurement, developed through her work with OGX Productions, Sony’s Sharp Entertainment, and New York City theatrical productions. At Shaff Fundraising Group, she draws on this experience to support the development of reporting systems, optimize data workflows, and contribute to strategy through clear, actionable insights. Her analytical mindset and collaborative approach help ensure that data serves as a powerful tool for fundraising success.
Director of Public Relations
Peggy Frank, MBA
Peggy is an expert PR and communications strategist with extensive experience in public relations, media outreach, and brand management. She has successfully led high-impact campaigns for a wide range of clients, from major corporations to nonprofit organizations. Peggy’s expertise in building strategic communications and driving brand visibility has made her a trusted advisor in the industry. Her innovative approach boosts brand visibility and media impact.
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Consulting Partner
Emily Kernan, CFRE
Emily is a passionate and people-forward fundraiser and advancement leader focused on making an impact across all areas within the nonprofit sector, especially higher education and the arts. An accomplished instructor, presenter, teaching assistant, and board member, she enjoys creating and executing collaborative and strategic development plans to better both individuals and teams. She has held meaningful roles at Lafayette College, Rice University, and the University of Pennsylvania and holds a Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership from Penn's School of Social Policy and Practice.
Consulting Partner
Elizabeth Sullivan
Liz Sullivan is a fundraising, marketing, and advancement leader with more than 16 years of experience in annual and leadership giving programs. She has expertise in campaign development, donor engagement, stewardship, and digital fundraising strategy. Liz has held leadership roles at Northwestern University, the University of Chicago, and the American Bar Association. Her work is grounded in a deep understanding of donor behavior and a commitment to building meaningful, lasting relationships that drive philanthropic impact.
Consulting Partner
Danny Yanez, Ed.D., CFRE
Dr. Danny Yanez is an accomplished fundraising professional with over 15 years of experience in philanthropy, alumni engagement, and corporate partnerships. As a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) with a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership, he has raised over $70M throughout his career. Dr. Yanez has held key leadership roles at the University of Miami and worked extensively with the University of Notre Dame Alumni Association, driving major gift efforts and corporate collaborations.
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Content Specialist
Ali Jackson Popp
Ali is a creative communications strategist and omnichannel marketing expert with more than 15 years of nonprofit advancement experience. She has held leadership roles at prestigious organizations, including Syracuse University. Her expertise includes content strategy, segmented campaign development, and cross-platform messaging. Ali holds an M.A. in Advertising from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School.