STAFF
Ken Levit, Executive Director
Ken Levit is executive director of GKFF®. Prior to taking on the leadership role at GKFF, Mr. Levit served as president of the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa from 2001 to 2006. From early 1998 through 2000, Mr. Levit was special counsel to George Tenet, director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Mr. Levit practiced corporate law at the firm of Crowe & Dunlevy in Tulsa from 1995 to 1998.
Mr. Levit is involved in several civic activities. He currently serves as chair of Teach for America-Oklahoma, as a member of the Teach for America National Council, and as chair of the Tulsa Regional Chamber Tulsa’s Future Commission. Mr. Levit also leads the board of the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Mr. Levit earned his law degree from Yale Law School in 1994 and received his undergraduate degree from Brown University in 1987.
Lex Anderson joined GKFF as Interim Controller in July 2023. He brings more than 40 years of senior financial leadership to GKFF. Lex began his professional career in public accounting with KPMG. He left KPMG after serving as Managing Partner of the Tulsa Office to join St. John Health System in Tulsa as Chief Financial Officer, where he served for 14 years. He also served CAP Tulsa as CFO before joining GKFF.
Lex has worked in senior leadership and governance roles for and with both large and small organizations (publicly-traded, investor-owned, governmental and non-profit) across many different industries. Lex is a certified public accountant and graduated with honors from Drake University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree.
Lex Anderson
Controller
Lex Anderson joined GKFF as Interim Controller in July 2023. He brings more than 40 years of senior financial leadership to GKFF. Lex began his professional career in public accounting with KPMG. He left KPMG after serving as Managing Partner of the Tulsa Office to join St. John Health System in Tulsa as Chief Financial Officer, where he served for 14 years. He also served CAP Tulsa as CFO before joining GKFF.
Lex has worked in senior leadership and governance roles for and with both large and small organizations (publicly-traded, investor-owned, governmental and non-profit) across many different industries. Lex is a certified public accountant and graduated with honors from Drake University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree.
Monica Basu works on community health and higher education initiatives. She joined GKFF after several years in the private sector where she held various management positions in the financial services and telecommunications industries. Ms. Basu holds a Master of Business Administration from Duke University and a Master of Science in health care delivery from Dartmouth College. She is a native of India, grew up in four countries, and speaks seven languages.
Equal Opportunity
Monica Basu
Senior Program Officer
Monica Basu works on community health and higher education initiatives. She joined GKFF after several years in the private sector where she held various management positions in the financial services and telecommunications industries. Ms. Basu holds a Master of Business Administration from Duke University and a Master of Science in health care delivery from Dartmouth College. She is a native of India, grew up in four countries, and speaks seven languages.
Joua Beikman joined GKFF in 2024 and serves as Executuive Administrative Coordinator for the Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa team. Mrs. Beikman is an Oklahoma native and resides in Broken Arrow with her husband and two children. Prior to joining GKFF, she held multiple operational roles throughout her 16-year career with FedEx Ground.
Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa
Joua Beikman
Executive Coordinator – VIT
Joua Beikman joined GKFF in 2024 and serves as Executuive Administrative Coordinator for the Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa team. Mrs. Beikman is an Oklahoma native and resides in Broken Arrow with her husband and two children. Prior to joining GKFF, she held multiple operational roles throughout her 16-year career with FedEx Ground.
Shalene Belford joined the accounting team in April 2018. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Master’s in Accountancy and has several years of experience in nonprofit accounting. In addition to her role at GKFF, Shalene is involved with various local Tulsa nonprofits and has previously served as a Treasurer. Outside of the office, Shalene and her husband Neil enjoy traveling, reading, learning, and spending time with their two young children.
Shalene Belford
Senior Accountant
Shalene Belford joined the accounting team in April 2018. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Master’s in Accountancy and has several years of experience in nonprofit accounting. In addition to her role at GKFF, Shalene is involved with various local Tulsa nonprofits and has previously served as a Treasurer. Outside of the office, Shalene and her husband Neil enjoy traveling, reading, learning, and spending time with their two young children.
Catrice Brantley is the Director of ConnectFirst, with the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa. Prior to joining GKFF, she held various nurse leadership roles with the most recent at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Ms. Brantley holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oral Roberts University and a Master of Science in Nurse Midwifery from the University of Kansas.
Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST)
Catrice Brantley
Director of ConnectFirst
Catrice Brantley is the Director of ConnectFirst, with the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa. Prior to joining GKFF, she held various nurse leadership roles with the most recent at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Ms. Brantley holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oral Roberts University and a Master of Science in Nurse Midwifery from the University of Kansas.
As of July 2024 Alex Bromley currently serves the foundation as the grants manager. She joined the foundation in 2017 as the Executive Administrative Coordinator for the VIT team, concentrating on economic development, placemaking, and talent recruitment initiatives. Alex brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles in development and administration with various non-profits throughout the Tulsa area.
Alex Bromley
Grants Manager
As of July 2024 Alex Bromley currently serves the foundation as the grants manager. She joined the foundation in 2017 as the Executive Administrative Coordinator for the VIT team, concentrating on economic development, placemaking, and talent recruitment initiatives. Alex brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles in development and administration with various non-profits throughout the Tulsa area.
John Budd is chief operating officer for GKFF, working across programs to identify areas of synergy and improved effectiveness. He joined GKFF in 2022 after serving as the first COO for the State of Oklahoma. John also previously served as an EVP and chief strategy officer for Sonic Drive-In, and as a partner and managing director for Boston Consulting Group. John received his undergraduate degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and his MBA from the Kellogg School of Northwestern University.
John Budd
Chief Operating Officer
John Budd is chief operating officer for GKFF, working across programs to identify areas of synergy and improved effectiveness. He joined GKFF in 2022 after serving as the first COO for the State of Oklahoma. John also previously served as an EVP and chief strategy officer for Sonic Drive-In, and as a partner and managing director for Boston Consulting Group. John received his undergraduate degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and his MBA from the Kellogg School of Northwestern University.
Carolyn Burke joined George Kaiser Family Foundation in January 2023 as an accountant. Carolyn helps to manage accounting records, legal documentation, and the back-office system for the investment team. Prior to joining GKFF, Carolyn worked in the tax department at Kaiser-Francis Oil Company for 18 years.
Carolyn Burke
Accountant
Carolyn Burke joined George Kaiser Family Foundation in January 2023 as an accountant. Carolyn helps to manage accounting records, legal documentation, and the back-office system for the investment team. Prior to joining GKFF, Carolyn worked in the tax department at Kaiser-Francis Oil Company for 18 years.
Cynthia Jasso Burke is a Senior Program Officer at the George Kaiser Family Foundation, where she works on resident-centered neighborhood development and immigrant inclusion. She joined GKFF in 2020 after spending nearly 6 years in education, first as an educator and then moving into leadership roles at a national education-based nonprofit. Cynthia serves on several community boards and task forces including as a gubernatorial appointee to the Oklahoma State Work Permits and Visas Taskforce. She is the daughter of Mexican immigrants whose sacrifice allowed her to become a first-generation college graduate from UCLA. Cynthia is the proud mother to an almost-two-year-old toddler and wife to a lifelong Oklahoman.
Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa
Cynthia Jasso Burke
Senior Program Officer
Cynthia Jasso Burke is a Senior Program Officer at the George Kaiser Family Foundation, where she works on resident-centered neighborhood development and immigrant inclusion. She joined GKFF in 2020 after spending nearly 6 years in education, first as an educator and then moving into leadership roles at a national education-based nonprofit. Cynthia serves on several community boards and task forces including as a gubernatorial appointee to the Oklahoma State Work Permits and Visas Taskforce. She is the daughter of Mexican immigrants whose sacrifice allowed her to become a first-generation college graduate from UCLA. Cynthia is the proud mother to an almost-two-year-old toddler and wife to a lifelong Oklahoman.
Kelsi Burrell joined GKFF in 2022 and serves as a Program Associate for the Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa team with a focus on neighborhood initiatives. Before her tenure at GKFF, she held operational roles within locally owned private practice behavioral health offices.
Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa
Kelsi Burrell
Program Associate
Kelsi Burrell joined GKFF in 2022 and serves as a Program Associate for the Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa team with a focus on neighborhood initiatives. Before her tenure at GKFF, she held operational roles within locally owned private practice behavioral health offices.
Kimberly Butler’s work at GKFF focuses on maternal child health initiatives. Prior to joining GKFF, Ms. Butler was a Peace Corps volunteer in Guatemala working with women and children on issues of health and nutrition. Following the Peace Corps, she worked with women and children at Rosie's Place in Boston. Ms. Butler graduated from Wellesley College in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts and completed her master’s degree in public health at the University of Oklahoma in 2009.
Equal Opportunity
Kimberly Butler
Senior Program Officer
Kimberly Butler’s work at GKFF focuses on maternal child health initiatives. Prior to joining GKFF, Ms. Butler was a Peace Corps volunteer in Guatemala working with women and children on issues of health and nutrition. Following the Peace Corps, she worked with women and children at Rosie's Place in Boston. Ms. Butler graduated from Wellesley College in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts and completed her master’s degree in public health at the University of Oklahoma in 2009.
Judy Chapman joined the GKFF accounting team as a Senior Accountant in June 2024. She actively participates in the implementation of the new accounting system and collaborates closely with the investment team to address GKFF's accounting needs. Judy Chapman holds a Master of Science in Finance from the University of Tulsa and has several years of experience in accounting and financial system development. Originally from China, Judy has lived in Tulsa since 2003 with her husband. She enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time with her two college-age children.
Judy Chapman
Senior Accountant
Judy Chapman joined the GKFF accounting team as a Senior Accountant in June 2024. She actively participates in the implementation of the new accounting system and collaborates closely with the investment team to address GKFF's accounting needs. Judy Chapman holds a Master of Science in Finance from the University of Tulsa and has several years of experience in accounting and financial system development. Originally from China, Judy has lived in Tulsa since 2003 with her husband. She enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time with her two college-age children.
Taylor Costley joined the GKFF accounting team as a Senior Accountant in May 2022. Taylor helps manage the back office and accounting needs of GKFF. She is a Tulsa native and graduated from Bixby High School before attending the University of Tulsa, where she graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Accounting degree and in 2016 with a Masters of Accountancy. Upon graduating, she became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the state of Oklahoma and obtained roughly six years of public accounting experience at a regional firm in Tulsa, particularly in the non-profit and manufacturing industries.
Taylor Costley
Accounting Manager
Taylor Costley joined the GKFF accounting team as a Senior Accountant in May 2022. Taylor helps manage the back office and accounting needs of GKFF. She is a Tulsa native and graduated from Bixby High School before attending the University of Tulsa, where she graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Accounting degree and in 2016 with a Masters of Accountancy. Upon graduating, she became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the state of Oklahoma and obtained roughly six years of public accounting experience at a regional firm in Tulsa, particularly in the non-profit and manufacturing industries.
Abbey Doyle serves as a Grants and Operations Coordinator for GKFF. Prior to joining GKFF full-time in 2023, Abbey worked as an intern with CAP Tulsa and as a program manager for a Tulsa-area nonprofit through Tulsa Service Year. Abbey holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Kansas.
Abbey Doyle
Grants and Operations Coordinator
Abbey Doyle serves as a Grants and Operations Coordinator for GKFF. Prior to joining GKFF full-time in 2023, Abbey worked as an intern with CAP Tulsa and as a program manager for a Tulsa-area nonprofit through Tulsa Service Year. Abbey holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Kansas.
Heather processes payables for GKFF and many of its connected LLCs. She considers herself a Tulsa native, hailing from Sand Springs, OK, where she graduated from Charles Page High School. In 2020, she graduated from Oklahoma State University with a BA in Psychology. She spent a couple years doing taxes at a public accounting firm, before being hired by TCF in 2022. She officially became part of the GKFF team in 2024. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her fiancée and two cats, traveling, going to concerts, watching movies, and building elaborate Lego sets.
Heather Halley
Accounting Clerk
Heather processes payables for GKFF and many of its connected LLCs. She considers herself a Tulsa native, hailing from Sand Springs, OK, where she graduated from Charles Page High School. In 2020, she graduated from Oklahoma State University with a BA in Psychology. She spent a couple years doing taxes at a public accounting firm, before being hired by TCF in 2022. She officially became part of the GKFF team in 2024. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her fiancée and two cats, traveling, going to concerts, watching movies, and building elaborate Lego sets.
Eddie is the Director of Business Analytics for GKFF, helping assess agency effectiveness and implementing business intelligence strategy. Eddie has 20+ years of subject matter expertise in financial model development, financial reporting and data analytics. Prior to joining GKFF in 2018, he worked at Family & Children’s Services for 10+ years, where he was the Financial Analysis and Budget Director, responsible for developing budgets and forecasts for 70+ programs, acting as the primary financial analyst to the CEO and CFO and helping implement an advanced business intelligence infrastructure. Before that, Eddie had a multi-faceted career at Avis Rent-a-Car and Cendant Corporation, progressing from reservations agent to VP of Avis North American call center operations and later, leading Cendant’s contact center operational efficiency and outsourcing efforts. Eddie is a 1987 graduate of University of Tulsa with a bachelor’s degree in Finance.
Eddie Hassell
Director of Business Analytics
Eddie is the Director of Business Analytics for GKFF, helping assess agency effectiveness and implementing business intelligence strategy. Eddie has 20+ years of subject matter expertise in financial model development, financial reporting and data analytics. Prior to joining GKFF in 2018, he worked at Family & Children’s Services for 10+ years, where he was the Financial Analysis and Budget Director, responsible for developing budgets and forecasts for 70+ programs, acting as the primary financial analyst to the CEO and CFO and helping implement an advanced business intelligence infrastructure. Before that, Eddie had a multi-faceted career at Avis Rent-a-Car and Cendant Corporation, progressing from reservations agent to VP of Avis North American call center operations and later, leading Cendant’s contact center operational efficiency and outsourcing efforts. Eddie is a 1987 graduate of University of Tulsa with a bachelor’s degree in Finance.
Roxanne is originally from the Pacific Northwest. She relocated to the greater Tulsa area in April of 2020 shortly after visiting family and falling in love with the area. After an accounting career supporting a variety of business enterprises including her own successful event production company, and focusing on raising her family, in 2012 she returned to college to complete her Bachelor of Science – Accountancy degree and shifted her career focus to supporting social and community improvement non-profits. It didn’t take long after arriving in Tulsa for her to become aware of the positive impact GKFF has had and continues to have on our community. When the opportunity arose to become a small part of the team supporting those efforts, she jumped at the chance and joined the GKFF accounting team in September of 2023. Roxanne’s free time is spent renovating her home and enjoying her family who are spread between Alaska, Washington State, and Chouteau, Oklahoma.
Roxanne Luane
Senior Accountant
Roxanne is originally from the Pacific Northwest. She relocated to the greater Tulsa area in April of 2020 shortly after visiting family and falling in love with the area. After an accounting career supporting a variety of business enterprises including her own successful event production company, and focusing on raising her family, in 2012 she returned to college to complete her Bachelor of Science – Accountancy degree and shifted her career focus to supporting social and community improvement non-profits. It didn’t take long after arriving in Tulsa for her to become aware of the positive impact GKFF has had and continues to have on our community. When the opportunity arose to become a small part of the team supporting those efforts, she jumped at the chance and joined the GKFF accounting team in September of 2023. Roxanne’s free time is spent renovating her home and enjoying her family who are spread between Alaska, Washington State, and Chouteau, Oklahoma.
Josh Miller works on neighborhood revitalization, civic enhancement and economic development. Prior to joining GKFF, Mr. Miller was a director of compliance in the University of Oklahoma (OU) athletic department and then vice president of the Folds of Honor Foundation. He graduated from OU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism, and in 2007 with a Juris Doctor and master’s degree in education.
Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa
Josh Miller
Senior Program Officer
Josh Miller works on neighborhood revitalization, civic enhancement and economic development. Prior to joining GKFF, Mr. Miller was a director of compliance in the University of Oklahoma (OU) athletic department and then vice president of the Folds of Honor Foundation. He graduated from OU in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism, and in 2007 with a Juris Doctor and master’s degree in education.
Brandon Oldham serves as a Senior Program Officer on the Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa team. The north Tulsa native has worked in recruiting, human resources, and development. Prior to joining the foundation, Brandon served the University of Oklahoma as Assistant Director of Student Life and, more recently, the City of Tulsa as the Mayoral Aide to Mayor G.T. Bynum. He is a first generation college graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s in education from the University of Oklahoma.
Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa
Brandon Oldham
Senior Program Officer
Brandon Oldham serves as a Senior Program Officer on the Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa team. The north Tulsa native has worked in recruiting, human resources, and development. Prior to joining the foundation, Brandon served the University of Oklahoma as Assistant Director of Student Life and, more recently, the City of Tulsa as the Mayoral Aide to Mayor G.T. Bynum. He is a first generation college graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s in education from the University of Oklahoma.
Tochi Onwuakpa serves as the Financial/Budgeting Analyst for GKFF and all other connected LLCs. He brings his wealth of experience in modelling and analysis from multiple roles with organizations in the Tulsa area. Tochi graduated from Oral Roberts University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in finance.
Tochi Onwuakpa
Financial/Budgeting Analyst
Tochi Onwuakpa serves as the Financial/Budgeting Analyst for GKFF and all other connected LLCs. He brings his wealth of experience in modelling and analysis from multiple roles with organizations in the Tulsa area. Tochi graduated from Oral Roberts University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in finance.
Sophia Pappas joined GKFF in 2017. She's responsible for the implementation of the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST). Before joining GKFF, Ms. Pappas authored Good Morning, Children (Gryphon House, '09), spearheaded Teach For America’s national Early Childhood Education Initiative and served as Chief of Staff for the NYC Dept. of Education for the Division of Talent, Labor and Innovation. She ran the NYC Dept. of Education’s Early Childhood Education Division where she oversaw teams responsible for ensuring Pre-K for all programs across the city, serving approximately 70,000 children annually offering high-quality classroom instruction and family engagement. She managed public and private partnerships supporting these efforts. She attended Georgetown University and Harvard Kennedy School earning a Master of Public Policy.
Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST)
Sophia Pappas
Managing Director
Sophia Pappas joined GKFF in 2017. She's responsible for the implementation of the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST). Before joining GKFF, Ms. Pappas authored Good Morning, Children (Gryphon House, '09), spearheaded Teach For America’s national Early Childhood Education Initiative and served as Chief of Staff for the NYC Dept. of Education for the Division of Talent, Labor and Innovation. She ran the NYC Dept. of Education’s Early Childhood Education Division where she oversaw teams responsible for ensuring Pre-K for all programs across the city, serving approximately 70,000 children annually offering high-quality classroom instruction and family engagement. She managed public and private partnerships supporting these efforts. She attended Georgetown University and Harvard Kennedy School earning a Master of Public Policy.
Tania Pryce serves as the director of grants and systems for GKFF. Prior to joining GKFF in 2022, Tania worked in technology helping organization access and use information for social good. She also has over 15 years of nonprofit experience working with Tulsa area youth and families. She has a master’s degree in counseling psychology.
Tania Pryce
Director of Grants and Systems
Tania Pryce serves as the director of grants and systems for GKFF. Prior to joining GKFF in 2022, Tania worked in technology helping organization access and use information for social good. She also has over 15 years of nonprofit experience working with Tulsa area youth and families. She has a master’s degree in counseling psychology.
John joined GKFF as its Chief Accounting Officer in October 2023. He is responsible for all aspects of accounting and financial reporting for GKFF. John grew up in Wichita, KS and since lived in St. Louis, MO and the Washington, DC area before moving to Tulsa in 1999. A CPA, John practiced public accounting from 1989 to 1999 where he specialized in the nonprofit and construction industries as an auditor and consultant. Upon moving to Tulsa with his young family in 1999, John worked in 3 roles over a 9 year period at Saint Francis Health System as the Chief Compliance Officer, Director of Finance, and Executive Director of Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital. In subsequent roles, he served as CFO at a real estate firm and most recently at Universal Background Screening. John graduated from the Olin School of Business at Washington University in St. Louis.
John Robson
Chief Accounting Officer
John joined GKFF as its Chief Accounting Officer in October 2023. He is responsible for all aspects of accounting and financial reporting for GKFF. John grew up in Wichita, KS and since lived in St. Louis, MO and the Washington, DC area before moving to Tulsa in 1999. A CPA, John practiced public accounting from 1989 to 1999 where he specialized in the nonprofit and construction industries as an auditor and consultant. Upon moving to Tulsa with his young family in 1999, John worked in 3 roles over a 9 year period at Saint Francis Health System as the Chief Compliance Officer, Director of Finance, and Executive Director of Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital. In subsequent roles, he served as CFO at a real estate firm and most recently at Universal Background Screening. John graduated from the Olin School of Business at Washington University in St. Louis.
Sara Ross joined GKFF in 2017 and serves as a Program Officer on GKFF’s Equal Opportunity Team. Sara manages GKFF’s Social Services Safety Net (SSSN) grant portfolio and the Summer Impact Program. She also works closely with GKFF’s Accelerator Grants process. Prior to joining GKFF, Sara worked at the University of Oklahoma (OU) as a student assistant for the College of Professional and Continuing Studies. She graduated from OU in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Relations and in 2017 with a master’s degree in Human Relations/Human Resource Diversity and Development.
Equal Opportunity
Sara Ross
Program Officer
Sara Ross joined GKFF in 2017 and serves as a Program Officer on GKFF’s Equal Opportunity Team. Sara manages GKFF’s Social Services Safety Net (SSSN) grant portfolio and the Summer Impact Program. She also works closely with GKFF’s Accelerator Grants process. Prior to joining GKFF, Sara worked at the University of Oklahoma (OU) as a student assistant for the College of Professional and Continuing Studies. She graduated from OU in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Relations and in 2017 with a master’s degree in Human Relations/Human Resource Diversity and Development.
Amy Monsour Santee is a Senior Program Officer at the George Kaiser Family Foundation. She joined the team in 2006 and is responsible for the foundation’s investments in areas related to female incarceration and criminal justice reform. Amy helped launch several new initiatives in Tulsa including Women in Recovery, Center for Employment Opportunities and most recently Still She Rises. She also manages Tulsa Community Foundation’s Oklahoma Justice Fund, a funding collaborative working to boost economic mobility and reduce incarceration across Oklahoma. She currently serves on the boards of Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform, Still She Rises, Oklahoma Justice Fund and appointed to the Tulsa County Criminal Justice Planning and Policy Council and CEO advisory council. Amy graduated Order of the Coif from University of Oklahoma College of Law in 2001, where she served as Research Editor of the Oklahoma Law Review. Prior to joining GKFF, she practiced real estate law at the firm of Conner & Winters and served as in-house counsel at WilTel Communications.
Equal Opportunity
Amy Santee
Chief Program Officer
Amy Monsour Santee is a Senior Program Officer at the George Kaiser Family Foundation. She joined the team in 2006 and is responsible for the foundation’s investments in areas related to female incarceration and criminal justice reform. Amy helped launch several new initiatives in Tulsa including Women in Recovery, Center for Employment Opportunities and most recently Still She Rises. She also manages Tulsa Community Foundation’s Oklahoma Justice Fund, a funding collaborative working to boost economic mobility and reduce incarceration across Oklahoma. She currently serves on the boards of Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform, Still She Rises, Oklahoma Justice Fund and appointed to the Tulsa County Criminal Justice Planning and Policy Council and CEO advisory council. Amy graduated Order of the Coif from University of Oklahoma College of Law in 2001, where she served as Research Editor of the Oklahoma Law Review. Prior to joining GKFF, she practiced real estate law at the firm of Conner & Winters and served as in-house counsel at WilTel Communications.
Suzanne Schreiber works on special projects for GKFF, including Tulsa’s Gathering Place LLC and various policy initiatives. Originally from New Mexico, Ms. Schreiber practiced law for several years and clerked for both the Northern District Court of Oklahoma and the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. She graduated from the University of Tulsa College of Law and the University of Tulsa with a Bachelor of Science in political science and law and society.
Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa
Suzanne Schreiber
Senior Program Officer
Suzanne Schreiber works on special projects for GKFF, including Tulsa’s Gathering Place LLC and various policy initiatives. Originally from New Mexico, Ms. Schreiber practiced law for several years and clerked for both the Northern District Court of Oklahoma and the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. She graduated from the University of Tulsa College of Law and the University of Tulsa with a Bachelor of Science in political science and law and society.
Ilana Shushansky serves as the Director of Continuous Improvement for GKFF, where she works to identify areas for organizational improvement. Prior to this role, Ilana was a Director at Third Sector, a nonprofit advisory firm that partners with government to create more data-driven, outcomes-focused, equitable social services. Ilana co-led Third Sector’s criminal justice practice, collaborating with federal, state, and county governments and communities to transform services, financing, and contracting for diversion and re-entry programs. Prior to her government consulting work, she led data strategy and analytics for Women in Recovery, supported experiential education programs at American Jewish World Service, and co-founded VOICE4Girls, a non-profit that works with adolescent girls in India. Ilana graduated from Emory University and is an IDEX Fellowship and Mine Fellowship alum.
Ilana Shushansky
Director of Continuous Improvement
Ilana Shushansky serves as the Director of Continuous Improvement for GKFF, where she works to identify areas for organizational improvement. Prior to this role, Ilana was a Director at Third Sector, a nonprofit advisory firm that partners with government to create more data-driven, outcomes-focused, equitable social services. Ilana co-led Third Sector’s criminal justice practice, collaborating with federal, state, and county governments and communities to transform services, financing, and contracting for diversion and re-entry programs. Prior to her government consulting work, she led data strategy and analytics for Women in Recovery, supported experiential education programs at American Jewish World Service, and co-founded VOICE4Girls, a non-profit that works with adolescent girls in India. Ilana graduated from Emory University and is an IDEX Fellowship and Mine Fellowship alum.
Katelynn joined GKFF in 2022 serving as the administrative coordinator for GKFF's Equal Opportunity team. Prior to joining GKFF, Mrs. Sorenson held operational roles in higher education, non-profit, and financial services industries. She graduated from East Central University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services Counseling.
Equal Opportunity
Katelynn Sorenson
Program Coordinator
Katelynn joined GKFF in 2022 serving as the administrative coordinator for GKFF's Equal Opportunity team. Prior to joining GKFF, Mrs. Sorenson held operational roles in higher education, non-profit, and financial services industries. She graduated from East Central University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services Counseling.
Jeff Stava supports GKFF’s work in overall civic enhancement, placemaking, and beautification. Mr. Stava currently serves as chief operating officer for Tulsa Community Foundation and executive director of Tulsa’s Gathering Place LLC. He has spent most of his career in business and most recently as president/CEO of Outdoor Innovations. Mr. Stava is a 1991 graduate of Baylor University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in operations management.
Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa
Jeff Stava
Chief Program Officer
Jeff Stava supports GKFF’s work in overall civic enhancement, placemaking, and beautification. Mr. Stava currently serves as chief operating officer for Tulsa Community Foundation and executive director of Tulsa’s Gathering Place LLC. He has spent most of his career in business and most recently as president/CEO of Outdoor Innovations. Mr. Stava is a 1991 graduate of Baylor University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in operations management.
Dan Sterba is the Director of Data Systems and Technology for the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa for GKFF. He joins the team from the healthcare consulting industry, where he worked on process optimization and software design for large non-profit hospital systems. Mr. Sterba graduated from Brown University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in both Economics and Russian.
Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST)
Dan Sterba
Director of Data Systems and Technology
Dan Sterba is the Director of Data Systems and Technology for the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa for GKFF. He joins the team from the healthcare consulting industry, where he worked on process optimization and software design for large non-profit hospital systems. Mr. Sterba graduated from Brown University in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in both Economics and Russian.
Becca Sterling manages the GKFF office and serves as an executive assistant. Ms. Sterling previously worked at the University of Oklahoma (OU) as an event coordinator in the College of Continuing Education. She graduated from OU in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts in social sciences and a minor in public administration.
Becca Sterling
Senior Executive Administrator
Becca Sterling manages the GKFF office and serves as an executive assistant. Ms. Sterling previously worked at the University of Oklahoma (OU) as an event coordinator in the College of Continuing Education. She graduated from OU in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts in social sciences and a minor in public administration.
Ben Stewart works on talent initiatives at GKFF. Prior to joining GKFF in 2010, Mr. Stewart worked in venture capital for the Oklahoma Life Sciences Fund, lived abroad in Argentina, and worked with social entrepreneurship groups Ashoka and Endeavor. A Tulsa native, he is a 2007 graduate from the Honors College at the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor's degree in international business, entrepreneurship and Spanish.
Vibrant and Inclusive Tulsa
Ben Stewart
Senior Program Officer and Managing Director
Ben Stewart works on talent initiatives at GKFF. Prior to joining GKFF in 2010, Mr. Stewart worked in venture capital for the Oklahoma Life Sciences Fund, lived abroad in Argentina, and worked with social entrepreneurship groups Ashoka and Endeavor. A Tulsa native, he is a 2007 graduate from the Honors College at the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor's degree in international business, entrepreneurship and Spanish.
Allison joined GKFF in 2019 as Director of Operations for the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa. With over 15 years experience in education, first as a teacher and instructional coach and then moving on to systems-level roles in K-12 education, Allison most recently worked as a district administrator in Denver Public Schools and then nationally as a consultant. Her professional work has been focused on strategic planning, program implementation and scale-up efforts through an equity lens, including leadership, instructional and HR policies and practices, as well as management of large public grants. Allison earned Bachelor’s degrees in creative writing and American Studies from the University of Illinois, an MA in American Studies from the University of East Anglia in England, and a Masters of Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST)
Allison Trombley
Director of Operations
Allison joined GKFF in 2019 as Director of Operations for the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa. With over 15 years experience in education, first as a teacher and instructional coach and then moving on to systems-level roles in K-12 education, Allison most recently worked as a district administrator in Denver Public Schools and then nationally as a consultant. Her professional work has been focused on strategic planning, program implementation and scale-up efforts through an equity lens, including leadership, instructional and HR policies and practices, as well as management of large public grants. Allison earned Bachelor’s degrees in creative writing and American Studies from the University of Illinois, an MA in American Studies from the University of East Anglia in England, and a Masters of Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Amy joined GKFF in 2018 as the Director of Research Partnerships for the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST). She comes to GKFF from Oklahoma State University, where as a Clinical Associate Professor she held leadership roles in early childhood workforce development, including serving as the Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator and Oklahoma Co-Coordinator for the National Family Development Credential. She is a graduate of Tulsa Edison High School and holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Human Development & Family Studies from the University of Missouri-Columbia, a Master of Education degree in Sport & Exercise Psychology from the University of Virginia, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Human & Organizational Development from Vanderbilt University.
Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST)
Amy Tate
Director of Research Partnerships
Amy joined GKFF in 2018 as the Director of Research Partnerships for the Birth through Eight Strategy for Tulsa (BEST). She comes to GKFF from Oklahoma State University, where as a Clinical Associate Professor she held leadership roles in early childhood workforce development, including serving as the Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator and Oklahoma Co-Coordinator for the National Family Development Credential. She is a graduate of Tulsa Edison High School and holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Human Development & Family Studies from the University of Missouri-Columbia, a Master of Education degree in Sport & Exercise Psychology from the University of Virginia, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Human & Organizational Development from Vanderbilt University.
Annie Koppel Van Hanken oversees GKFF’s early childhood education and common education initiatives. Before joining the Foundation in 2002, Ms. Van Hanken worked in inner-city Los Angeles at a community-based youth development center. She serves as board president for Tulsa Educare and Tulsa Legacy Charter School. Ms. Van Hanken also serves on the board of Sunbeam Family Services of Oklahoma City and is a gubernatorial appointee on Oklahoma’s Early Childhood Advisory Council. She has a master’s degree in education, with an emphasis on learning disabilities, from the University of Texas at Austin and a dual bachelor’s degree in English and history, with a minor in classics, from Tulane University.
Equal Opportunity
Annie Koppel Van Hanken
Chief Program Officer
Annie Koppel Van Hanken oversees GKFF’s early childhood education and common education initiatives. Before joining the Foundation in 2002, Ms. Van Hanken worked in inner-city Los Angeles at a community-based youth development center. She serves as board president for Tulsa Educare and Tulsa Legacy Charter School. Ms. Van Hanken also serves on the board of Sunbeam Family Services of Oklahoma City and is a gubernatorial appointee on Oklahoma’s Early Childhood Advisory Council. She has a master’s degree in education, with an emphasis on learning disabilities, from the University of Texas at Austin and a dual bachelor’s degree in English and history, with a minor in classics, from Tulane University.
Sidney Wild serves as an administrative coordinator for GKFF’s Equal Opportunity team. Mrs. Wild received her bachelor's degree from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2022 and has a background of administrative work in the mental health field. She is passionate about supporting GKFF’s efforts which serve the education programs within Tulsa’s community.
Equal Opportunity
Sidney Wild
Administrative Coordinator
Sidney Wild serves as an administrative coordinator for GKFF’s Equal Opportunity team. Mrs. Wild received her bachelor's degree from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2022 and has a background of administrative work in the mental health field. She is passionate about supporting GKFF’s efforts which serve the education programs within Tulsa’s community.
LaBrisa, a Tulsa native, serves as a Program Officer on GKFF’s Equal Opportunity team. She is responsible for developing new programs in support of the foundation’s efforts to reduce domestic violence, sexual assault and substance abuse. She is a strong leader with experience in creating and executing programs that address health inequities in underserved communities. After graduating from the University of Oklahoma, LaBrisa spent two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer developing HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention programs in Botswana, Africa. She has also served as the Founding Executive Director of the Tulsa Birth Equity Initiative and completed community health-related fellowships with the Aspen Institute and the Ronnie K. Irani Center for the Creation of Economic Wealth. LaBrisa is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public health from the University of South Florida.
Equal Opportunity
LaBrisa Williams
Program Officer
LaBrisa, a Tulsa native, serves as a Program Officer on GKFF’s Equal Opportunity team. She is responsible for developing new programs in support of the foundation’s efforts to reduce domestic violence, sexual assault and substance abuse. She is a strong leader with experience in creating and executing programs that address health inequities in underserved communities. After graduating from the University of Oklahoma, LaBrisa spent two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer developing HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention programs in Botswana, Africa. She has also served as the Founding Executive Director of the Tulsa Birth Equity Initiative and completed community health-related fellowships with the Aspen Institute and the Ronnie K. Irani Center for the Creation of Economic Wealth. LaBrisa is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public health from the University of South Florida.
Sawm was born and raised in a small country from Southeast Asia called Myanmar. She moved to the United States in 2016 and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from DeVry University in 2020. Prior to joining GKFF Accounting Team, she worked for Tulsa Community Foundation as Accounts Payable Manager for 3 years. Beyond numbers, Sawm loves cooking, reading, writing and watching movies.
Sawm Zaui
Accounts Payable Supervisor
Sawm was born and raised in a small country from Southeast Asia called Myanmar. She moved to the United States in 2016 and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from DeVry University in 2020. Prior to joining GKFF Accounting Team, she worked for Tulsa Community Foundation as Accounts Payable Manager for 3 years. Beyond numbers, Sawm loves cooking, reading, writing and watching movies.
INVESTMENT TEAM
Miguel's responsibilities span across investment strategy, asset allocation, and manager selection. Prior to joining GKFF, he was at the Fremont Group, a multi-billion-dollar family office in San Francisco. Previously, he held investment positions with the Andrew Mellon Foundation and Salient Partners. He holds a B.B.A. in Finance from Southern Methodist University, where he was awarded the Outstanding BBA Senior Award and was part of the Honors Portfolio Practicum program. He is an avid reader and enjoys listening to audiobooks, having earned a master level badge on Audible for over 500 hours of listening time.
Miguel Gutierrez
Principal – Investment Team
Miguel's responsibilities span across investment strategy, asset allocation, and manager selection. Prior to joining GKFF, he was at the Fremont Group, a multi-billion-dollar family office in San Francisco. Previously, he held investment positions with the Andrew Mellon Foundation and Salient Partners. He holds a B.B.A. in Finance from Southern Methodist University, where he was awarded the Outstanding BBA Senior Award and was part of the Honors Portfolio Practicum program. He is an avid reader and enjoys listening to audiobooks, having earned a master level badge on Audible for over 500 hours of listening time.
Lisa Lambert is Chief Investment Officer of Private Markets, where she oversees GKFF’s private investment portfolio and leads new investments, designed to enhance financial returns and ensure long-term sustainability for foundation operations. She directs private investments in energy technology, mobility, healthcare and other high growth sectors and manages the investment strategy in alignment with GKFF’s commitment to generate a positive impact for Tulsa. A Silicon Valley venture capitalist, Lambert’s background includes leading the software and services investment practice at Intel Capital, leading National Grid's innovation and investment operations as President and Founder of National Grid Partners, and founding a nonprofit, UPWARD, dedicated to advancing women and minorities to top corporate leadership. You can read more about Lisa’s connection to our mission here.
Lisa Lambert
Chief Investment Officer of Private Markets
Lisa Lambert is Chief Investment Officer of Private Markets, where she oversees GKFF’s private investment portfolio and leads new investments, designed to enhance financial returns and ensure long-term sustainability for foundation operations. She directs private investments in energy technology, mobility, healthcare and other high growth sectors and manages the investment strategy in alignment with GKFF’s commitment to generate a positive impact for Tulsa. A Silicon Valley venture capitalist, Lambert’s background includes leading the software and services investment practice at Intel Capital, leading National Grid's innovation and investment operations as President and Founder of National Grid Partners, and founding a nonprofit, UPWARD, dedicated to advancing women and minorities to top corporate leadership. You can read more about Lisa’s connection to our mission here.