Meet our Director of Development and Organizational Growth, Olivia Lehman!

Introducing Olivia Lehman (she/her), our new Director of Development and Organizational Growth! Prior to BWF, Olivia worked with the youth-focused nonprofit Guitars Over Guns, the American Red Cross, and others. Get to know her in our Q&A below!

Can you tell us a little about your background in philanthropy or activism work?

“Uniquely I’ve built my career on the shoulders of nonprofits focused on human development, natural disasters, and art therapy. While all very different, the common theme is the desire for restoration. We all have a vision of coming together and participating in something bigger than ourselves. That’s what I’m bringing to BWF; and why I’m so excited to be a part of a movement that requires massive vision, deep understanding, and participatory inclusion.”

What are you most looking forward to in your new role as Director of Development and Organizational Growth?

“I’m looking forward to changing the way our organization thinks about raising funding and awareness from our communities. Storytelling is one of my favorite things to do, and I’m ready to shine new light on an organization that has a long history of stories.”

What’s one of your favorite hobbies outside of work?

“I play a couple of instruments, but my favorite instrument is my own voice. I also write a newsletter called The Tampon Aisle and share an audio version of it for people that like to kick back and listen. When I’m not using a mic, I’m out in yoga studios teaching classes.”

What are two fun facts about you?

“I have a small pup, and I attend graduate school remotely in Seattle!”

What’s one quote that gives you life?

“Do whatever brings you to life, then. Follow your own fascinations, obsessions, and compulsions. Trust them. Create whatever causes a revolution in your heart.” - Elizabeth Gilbert

Meet Our New Board Vice Chair, Melissa Tearney!

Introducing Melissa Tearney (she/her), the new Vice Chair of the Boston Women’s Fund’s Board! Melissa sits on the board of several community organizations providing a variety of services throughout Greater Boston, including Greater Boston Legal Services, serving low-income clients. She’s also active on the board of several Jewish organizations, including Hebrew SeniorLife and Camp Bauercrest. She’s looking forward to growing BWF and reaching more women, girls and gender-expansive individuals. Learn more about Melissa in our Q&A!

What initially drew you to the Boston Women’s Fund?

“Natanja and I have known each other for over 35 years. I am inspired by her leadership. When she took on the Executive Director role of this remarkable organization, I knew I had to get involved. BWF’s mission and vision truly speak to me. I am so grateful to now serve on the BWF board.”

What are you most looking forward to in your new role as Vice Chair?

"Learning more about the grassroots organizations BWF supports and helping to build BWF so its mission can reach a greater audience."

If you could snap your fingers and change one thing about philanthropy, what would it be?

“To make it accessible to everyone. We need to drive home the message that everyone can be involved at whatever level.”

What are two fun facts about you?

“One of my dreams is to run a marathon, though I am not sure I will make it. Microwave popcorn is my dinner of choice (and also the only meal I can make).”

What’s one quote that gives you life?

“‘A woman is like a teabag…you never know how strong she is until you put her in hot water.’” —Eleanor Roosevelt

Meet our New Board Chair Akosua Ampofo Siever!

Boston Women’s Fund is excited to introduce Akosua Ampofo Siever (she/her), our new Board Chair! Akosua’s career has centered on seeking out partnerships with high-impact organizations, foundations, donor agencies, and local government, to develop, fund and implement community-led programs disrupting systems perpetuating poverty and inequality among underserved groups. We’re looking forward to all that Akosua’s leadership and expertise will bring! Get to know Akosua in our Q&A!

Can you share a little about your background in philanthropy or activism work?

“Originally from Ghana, I grew up in Kenya and Tanzania in a family of development practitioners. This early immersion raised questions for me around inclusive community-driven project design and longer-term social, environmental and economic impacts. My experience in East Africa spurned a lifelong commitment to collaborate with communities and to improve the quality of life for women, youth and families whose pathways are barred by structural racism and historic inequity.”

What are you most looking forward to in your new role as Board Chair?

“I am excited about working with our incredible staff, connecting with our grantee partners and building sector partnerships that advance the goals of grassroots organizations led by women, girls, and gender-nonconforming individuals.”

If you could snap your fingers and change one thing about philanthropy, what would it be?

“I’d have communities play a larger role in the grantmaking process, from contributing to grantee selection to defining desired impact and measurements. We already do some of this at BWF, but there is plenty of room for growth in this area across philanthropy.”

What are two fun facts about you?

“I have climbed to the second hut of Mount Kilimanjaro and aspire to design jewelry and furniture when I retire…someday.”