Vanessa Marek

Vanessa is a passionate nonprofit professional with a background in advancing fundraising and strategic initiatives across various sectors. Since joining Ignite Philanthropy in 2024 as a Manager and now serving as Senior Manager, she has partnered with nonprofits, foundations, and community leaders on fundraising strategies, grant development, and major giving. During her time at Ignite, she has supported fundraising campaigns representing more than $100 million in philanthropic investment across the region.

Before joining Ignite, Vanessa worked at The Columbus Foundation, helping steward hundreds of scholarship funds and donor initiatives that expanded educational opportunities across central Ohio, before serving as Development Manager for an international nonprofit advancing women in STEM. She began her career at the University of Chicago, supporting graduate education programs through student services and event management.

Vanessa holds a Master of Public Administration from The Ohio State University and a bachelor's degree from the University of Dayton. Outside of work, she serves on a local nonprofit board and is an active member of Junior League. She enjoys exploring local bookstores, watching football with her husband, and staying active through hiking and going to the gym.