The Dallas Foundation has announced the promotion of Dawn Townsend to chief operating officer. Since joining nonprofit in 2015, Townsend has played a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission and visibility, originally leading its marketing and communications efforts, the foundation said.
In her new role as COO, Townsend provides leadership and direction across Operations, Technology, and Strategic Initiatives, the nonprofit added, helping to build strong systems and teams while ensuring The Dallas Foundation is “well-positioned to achieve the objectives outlined in its strategic plan.”
As COO, Townsend works across departments to strengthen organizational effectiveness, foster innovation, and advance key priorities that support the foundation’s long-term impact throughout North Texas, the nonprofit added.
The Dallas Foundation CEO Julie Diaz said Townsend “has been an invaluable leader and trusted partner for more than a decade.”
“Her strategic mindset, commitment to operational excellence, and deep understanding of our mission make her uniquely qualified to help guide The Dallas Foundation into its next chapter,” Diaz added in a statement.
Townsend earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in communications from Loyola University New Orleans. Throughout her more than 25-year career, she has dedicated much of her work to the nonprofit sector, holding leadership roles across higher education, social services, and philanthropy. She lives in Rockwall with her husband, two daughters, and several beloved pets, the foundation said.
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