Alena Klimas is the Manager of Network Philanthropic Engagement on the State Fiscal Policy (SFP) team. She helps to ensure that SFP’s development and philanthropic-facing efforts continue to move forward at a high scale and quality. Klimas has a deep passion for supporting the State Priorities Partnership (SPP) Network and securing resources to help build strong, effective, and sustainable state-based organizations.

In her prior role as Program Specialist of Network Philanthropic Engagement at the Center, she coordinated funder events, outreach strategy, and provided technical assistance on SFP and to the SPP Network related to fundraising. Before that, she was a Program Manager with the Appalachia Funders Network and a consultant with Rural Support Partners. She is also a retired Peace Corps Morocco volunteer and the current treasurer of the Buncombe County Women’s Commission.

Klimas earned her master’s degree in Community Development Policy from the University of New Hampshire and bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Global Studies from Ohio University.