About Us

Dr. Michele Fugiel Gartner, CAP®, IPA
Advisory, Research, and Education
Michele is a global philanthropy researcher, advisor, and educator whose work focuses on the people, practices, and evolving role of philanthropic foundations. She brings a distinctive combination of academic research and real-world advisory experience, helping individuals, couples, and family foundations think strategically about purpose, governance, and impact.
Michele holds Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) and Impact Philanthropy Advisor (IPA) designations and has advised donors and philanthropic organizations across North America and internationally. Her professional experience includes leadership and advisory roles with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Social Venture Partners, Trico Charitable Foundation, Philanthropic Foundations Canada, and the Centre for the Study of Philanthropy & Public Good.
Michele holds a PhD in Management from the University of St Andrews (UK) and is known for translating research into practical insight for philanthropic leaders, practitioners, and the nonprofit sector.

Craig Gartner, CFA
Executive Coach
Craig is a finance professional with over twenty years of experience in four different financial institutions and also corporate businesses. Over the years, he has worked in Canada, the US, and the UK, as well as managed employees overseas. Craig has also been active in change management throughout his career - working with and managing large teams of diverse employees who represent countries and cultures from all over the world. This people manager and mentor aspect is the most valued aspect of his career.
Coaching develops your own potential while challenging your thinking towards personal growth or a specific goal. In contrast to mentoring, you are not told what to do but find it yourself. Craig's philosophy is that attention and active listening are the foundation of any good coaching relationship, with challenge and accountability.
He is an EMCC Accredited Coach and Mentor at the foundation level.