Brandi Howard is a dynamic and results-driven leader with extensive experience in philanthropy, public health, and community development. As the President and Chief Executive Officer of East Bay Community Foundation, she provides strategic vision and operational leadership for a nearly 100-year- old philanthropic institution with more than $500 million in assets under management. Under Brandi’s leadership, EBCF is leveraging its resources to promote economic freedom and sustainable development in underserved East Bay communities. Since joining EBCF in 2022, Brandi has mobilized $4-5 million in annual strategic grantmaking, enhanced capacity building for organizations in Alameda and Contra Costa counties, and advanced local advocacy efforts that influenced critical public safety policies. 

Brandi has demonstrated a deep commitment to equity and social impact throughout her career. Her tenure as Chief of Staff to the CEO and Interim Vice President of Programs at The San Francisco Foundation (SFF) highlighted her ability to lead organizational strategy and foster cross-sector collaboration. She was pivotal in designing SFF’s first multi-year strategic plan, developing success metrics, and overseeing a $5 million annual grantmaking budget. 

An expert in health equity, Brandi held leadership positions at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, where she spearheaded citywide initiatives to address racial inequities in chronic disease and maternal health. Her efforts resulted in policy interventions and place-based strategies that improved health outcomes for marginalized communities. She has also contributed to improving maternal and child health in Alameda County, California, through program development and policy consulting with First 5 Alameda County and her work as a doula. 

A respected thought leader in social determinants of health, economic inclusion, and organizational development, Brandi has served in numerous advisory and consultancy roles. She is passionate about fostering sustainable social change through collaborative philanthropy, data-driven evaluation, and inclusive community engagement. 

Brandi has a Master of Social Welfare with a focus on Management and Planning and a Bachelor of Arts in African American Studies from the University of California, Berkeley. She is also pursuing executive education at Harvard Business School, focusing on Leading Business Transitions. 

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Brandi is committed to mentoring future leaders, especially in Oakland where her family has lived for four generations.