Maria Griffin
About Maria Griffin
Maria Griffin serves as Vice President at CCS Fundraising, where she specializes in political fundraising and oversees pro bono programs. She has a background in education and political coaching, having worked with various organizations including Teach For America and Leadership for Educational Equity.
Work at CCS Fundraising
Maria Griffin has served as Vice President at CCS Fundraising since 2018. In this role, she manages fundraising planning studies and campaigns for various international organizations, including George Soros’ Open Society University Network and UNICEF. She oversees the pilot of pro bono programs, focusing on enhancing the organization's outreach and impact. Additionally, she chairs the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (Client Services) committee, promoting inclusive practices within the organization.
Education and Expertise
Maria Griffin holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, Human and Organizational Development, and Spanish from Vanderbilt University. She furthered her education with a Master's Degree in Education from Lipscomb University. Additionally, she studied Latin American Politics and International Politics at Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina 'Santa María de los Buenos Aires'. Her educational background supports her expertise in political fundraising, communications, and endorsement strategy.
Background
Maria Griffin was raised in San Diego, California, and later refined her interests in Nashville, Tennessee. She developed a passion for Broadway musicals and local live music venues during her time in Nashville. Her professional journey includes various roles in political fundraising and education, reflecting her commitment to social impact and community engagement.
Previous Experience in Education and Politics
Before her current role, Maria Griffin worked at Teach For America in two capacities: as a Corps Member from 2012 to 2014 in the Greater Nashville Area and as a Manager from 2017 to 2018 in New York City. She also served as a Manager for Candidate Development at Leadership for Educational Equity from 2015 to 2017. Her experience includes working with over 30 political candidates, particularly those with educational backgrounds, and managing fundraising and communications for DeRay Mckesson's mayoral campaign in Baltimore.
Achievements in Political Fundraising
Maria Griffin has specialized in political fundraising and communications, significantly impacting various campaigns. Notably, she managed fundraising efforts for DeRay Mckesson's mayoral campaign, successfully increasing the campaign budget by 50% through large donor events. She has also worked with organizations like Greenberg Quinlan Rosner and Calvert Street Group, contributing to domestic polling and campaign strategies.