Karissa Lepley is a Director of Fund Development for the Jacksonville Public Education Fund, where she leads institutional fundraising and written donor communications. In this role, she oversees grant development, CRM management, and donor-focused storytelling that supports cultivation and stewardship. Her work ensures that JPEF’s priorities are clearly positioned for investment from corporate, foundation, government, and philanthropic partners.
Karissa brings a strong background in development, communications, and marketing. Prior to joining JPEF, she served as Development and Advocacy Manager for Ability Housing, where she supported the organization’s mission by managing grants, strengthening funder relationships, and guiding key communication efforts. Her work involved writing proposals, overseeing compliance, and developing materials that showcased the organization’s impact. At the International Rescue Committee, she served as an Afghan Placement and Assistance Coordinator, where she worked closely with staff, volunteers, and community partners to support newly arrived families and ensure culturally responsive services. These roles, along with earlier positions in education services, marketing, and sales, have shaped Karissa into an adaptable and strategic professional skilled in donor engagement, relationship building, service delivery, and persuasive writing.
She holds a master’s degree in international relations from American University and a bachelor’s degree in global studies from Arizona State University, complemented by professional training in nonprofit leadership and grant development.