Gwen I. Walden, Principal

Gwen Walden has over 20 years of leadership experience in the philanthropic sector.  She has held both programmatic and management positions with responsibility for major projects and grantmaking initiatives at two of the largest foundations in the United States.  Her own grantmaking experience has encompassed giving at the international, national, and local levels.  She has expertise working with a range of organizations from small, grassroots agencies, to collaboratives and coalitions, to large educational institutions and museums.  She has designed and developed grant programs in the arts, health, and social services.  In addition, Gwen has had key roles in building high-profile venues for foundations, including The Getty Center and The California Endowment's Center for Healthy Communities, both located in Los Angeles and winners of many architectural awards.

Gwen has received national recognition for her numerous articles on current issues in philanthropy.  She is well-known for her promotion of the idea that foundations go beyond grantmaking to engage with their grantees through convening, technical assistance, capacity building, strategic communications, capital investments, and advocacy activities. Her creative thinking about the field reflects her commitment to innovative and entrepreneurial approaches to giving. 

Gwen has been an active member of the field of philanthropy for many years serving on numerous professional boards and committees.  She is especially proud of her efforts to increase the diversity of the profession.

Gwen earned a Bachelor's degree from The George Washington University and a Master's degree from The Johns Hopkins University.  She has lived in Los Angeles for 21 years.

Contact Gwen at gwen@waldenphil.com 

Partners

We believe that all of our clients should receive highly customized and unique solutions to their consulting projects. As a result, our approach to each engagement involves an intensive partnership between us and our clients, and we limit our engagements in order to allow for consistent and personal involvement of our principals.  We have experience working with staff, board members, individual donors, family trustees, and other client advisors as needed.  Walden Philanthropy Advisors utilizes experts in strategic planning, program design, management, organizational development, and other specialized practices to provide its clients with customized solutions to their consulting needs. We have an extensive network of individuals and firms that partner with us to provide the highest level of service.