Jesse Cowling

About Jesse Cowling

I work at the intersection of philanthropy, education, and social impact, helping mission-driven organizations mobilize resources for ambitious ideas that expand opportunity and strengthen communities. Over the course of my career, I have raised and stewarded tens of millions of dollars in philanthropic investment across education policy, global nonprofit initiatives, arts and culture, and youth development.

Experience

1. Director of Development

   Beam Center

   Sep 2025 — Present

   Leads the strategy, growth, and execution of Beam Center’s philanthropic revenue for one of New York City’s leading organizations advancing hands-on, project-based learning and career-connected education for young people. Designs and implements a comprehensive development strategy that integrates major gifts, foundation funding, corporate partnerships, government support, and board engagement. Works closely with executive leadership and trustees to build a culture of philanthropy and expand the organization’s long-term funding base.Beam Center was founded to reimagine how young people experience learning, work, and belonging. Our mission is to crystallize self-directed growth through ambitious, collaborative project-making. We support young people as producers of learning, culture, and change, helping them take bold steps toward meaningful futures while contributing to more equitable and compassionate communities.

Education

• Whitman College

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

• New York University

  Master of Arts (M.A.)

Skills

• Capital Campaign Management
• Stewardship
• Editing
• Community Foundations
• Newsletters
• Philanthropy
• Prospect Research
• Fundraising
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Capital Campaigns
• Grants
• Event Planning
• Marketing
• Copy Editing
• Board Development
• Major Donor Cultivation
• Volunteer Management
• Public Relations
• Donor Management
• Proposal Writing
• Grant Writing