I make things happen.
I turn big ideas and complex challenges into measurable results. I thrive at the intersection of strategy, execution, and communication — aligning people, simplifying complexity, and driving progress with clarity and discipline.
Currently focused on: program design, partnerships, operational excellence, and communications that inspire action.
*This work (and site) is proudly Powered by Heather.*
Snapshot
- • Systems thinker with a builder’s bias for action.
- • Program and project management expertise.
- • Communications that bridge strategy and execution.
- • Skilled in stakeholder engagement and operational improvement.
About Heather
I'm a program and partnerships leader who translates vision into execution. I build the plan, align the people, manage the dependencies, and deliver outcomes you can measure. My strength lies in turning complexity into clear next steps — and driving them to the finish line.
I care about resilient communities, equitable access to opportunity, and the small details that create a great experience for stakeholders. Recently, that’s looked like incubating retail founders, coordinating partnerships, and elevating systems that help people grow.
Strengths
- • Strategy → Roadmap → Execution
- • Stakeholder & partner orchestration
- • Communications that resonate across audiences
- • Grant, budget & vendor alignment
- • Operational playbooks & rituals
Focus Areas
- • Program & project management
- • Partnerships & stakeholder engagement
- • Operations & process improvement
- • Strategic communications & storytelling
Projects
This will evolve as new work goes live.
Market on Market (Retail Incubator)
ViewA 12-month launchpad for four retail founders in Downtown Durham
Inaugural cohort — Winter 2025
Free Public Wi-Fi Benches
View5-year Google-funded pilot designed to address the digital divide by enhancing digital connectivity while encouraging foot traffic, and expanding free outdoor connectivity in downtown Durham
Live
Blueprint 2035
ViewCommunity listening + activation to rebuild trust and shape a 10-year downtown plan
Ongoing
Business Retention & Recruitment Fund
ViewGrant and loan program supporting small businesses in Downtown Durham
Active — Multi-year initiative
Social Enterprise Academy
ViewOrganization’s first-ever cradle-to-career program combining financial literacy, soft-skills development & hands-on workforce training
Complete
Rites Ventures
ViewEarly-stage VC fund investing in companies modernizing the matriarchal experience at key life stages
Complete
Aya Birth & Community Wellness
ViewNorth Carolina’s first Black midwife-led birth & wellness center (nonprofit startup)
Complete
More coming soon
As projects move from build → launch, you'll find live case studies, artifacts, and results here.
Let’s build something that matters.
Recruiters, collaborators, and curious humans — I’d love to connect. If your challenge needs clarity, coordination, and thoughtful execution, I’m your person.
Quick note: This site is a growing hub. Check back for work samples, playbooks, and behind-the-scenes build logs as new programs go live.