Founder & Executive Director

My passion for philanthropy can be traced back to my pre-professional days. Whether as a Girl Scout selling cookies, a cheerleader selling raffle tickets, or participating in my university’s first student caller fundraising initiative. I’ve been on a mission to support a good cause from the start. 

I am a graduate of the University of the Arts London, Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design with a BA in Communications, Curation, and Criticism of Art and Design. Paired with an MS from Quinnipiac Business School in Organizational Leadership. I am certified in Grant Writing by UNLV, Credentialed in HR by HRIC,  Brene Brown – Dare to Lead Trained, and a Certified Professional Coach. I have raised millions of dollars for innovative and creative organizations and I want to help you do the same.

It was after using peer-to-peer giving to endow a scholarship for a late family member at the UC Denver College of Arts and Media that I decided to dedicate my career to philanthropy. Since that time I have continued to execute crowdfunding campaigns and experience firsthand the life-changing impact that peer-to-peer giving has on developing the career growth of students and artists as well as launching new business ventures, and supporting non-profit organizations. I have a strong focus on organizational culture, mission, and vision and implement a coaching approach to organizational leadership and internal/external partnerships. 

As a Certified Fund Raising Executive and award-winning fundraiser, I am proud to have partnered with innovative organizations generating revenue and increasing their support base. Launching new initiatives and taking on big challenges is what I know best – having been a part of the original launch teams for Yelp in the United Kingdom, The REEF Creative Habitat, Atwater Crossing Arts & Innovation Complex, and FootLights Publishing in Los Angeles. As well as working with the UNLV Global Entrepreneur Experience, the UNLV Troesh Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, and the ASU W.P. Carey Center for Entrepreneurship.

 I have served on the board of the Young Nonprofits Professional Network and was the President of the University of the Arts London Alumni Chapter for the United States.

Chris Erickson is a highly accomplished banking professional with over 25 years of experience in the field of finance and fraud prevention. He has a proven track record of developing and executing successful data analytics strategies sand has consistently delivered measurable results and driven business growth.

Throughout his career, Chris has held leadership positions at Bank of America, where he has led cross-functional teams and collaborated with stakeholders at all levels to achieve organizational objectives. He is known for his exceptional analytical skills, strategic thinking, and ability to adapt to rapidly evolving market trends.

In addition to his professional achievements, Chris is a strong advocate for community engagement and social responsibility, leveraging his skills to make a positive impact on society.

His passion for arts and innovation combined with his drive for excellence, makes him a valuable asset to The Funding Studio. 

 Renee King, Deputy Legal Defender at Maricopa County Office of the Legal Defender. Specializing in juvenile dependency and severance actions. Renee has a love of musicals, botanical gardens, animals including her two dogs, and traveling with her husband and daughter.  

 Amy Yackowski is the Founder and Chief Evolution Officer at Painted Porch Strategies, a stoically-based training and advisory team dedicated to guiding current and emerging leaders and organizations in becoming change ready and resilient in their life, work, and anywhere in between. Amy is an active member of the Junior League of Phoenix, serves on the executive committee for the Junior League of Phoenix Toastmaster's club, and is currently a Toastmaster Area Director for the greater Phoenix valley. In addition, she has served in volunteer roles for charitable organizations including the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, A Stepping Stone Foundation, and St. Vincent de Paul. Amy is thrilled and honored to be a part The Funding Studio and its mission to provide funding strategies and fiscal sponsorship to help turn bright ideas and passionate storytelling into shining achievements. 

 Alicia Jenkins has been a lover of the arts since she was a toddler. As a true theatre nerd, she is honored to be a founding member of The Funding Studio. She is also a freak in the spreadsheets, and can’t wait to use her budgeting expertise in service of such a great organization as treasurer. Her free time is spent with her amazing niblings, attending as many live performances as she can, and following the whims of her husband and dog.  

With 10 years of experience in healthcare improvement and analysis, Shari Baird is a seasoned leader dedicated to driving positive change within organizations. She has worked in both federal and industry organizations, playing instrumental roles in healthcare systems improvement and quality management. Collaborating closely with stakeholders, Shari has implemented sustainable solutions for enhancing access to care, leveraging her expertise in project management, program management, facilitation, and analysis.

Shari's leadership extends beyond her professional career. In the Arizona Dietetic Association, she served in various leadership positions, including President, demonstrating her ability to drive strategic initiatives and foster collaboration. Additionally, within the Junior League of Phoenix, Shari held various roles and is now a Sustaining member, showcasing her commitment to community service. As a prior President of the Junior League of Phoenix Toastmasters Club, Shari has a proven track record of effective leadership and mentorship in communication and public speaking.

Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, Shari is an avid supporter of the arts. She has held season tickets to ASU Gammage for several years, enjoying the vibrant cultural experiences offered by the theater. Additionally, Shari expresses her creativity through jewelry making, exploring various mediums to create unique pieces of art.