Dr. LaTonya Penny

Dr. LaTonya Penny is known for her relationship-centered approach, commitment to racial justice, and dedication to creating inclusive spaces, Dr. Penny has led the Foundation through significant growth, including the development of a new fellowship program and the strengthening of funder organizing and narrative change capacities. In recognition of her leadership in, Dr. Penny was recently named a 2025–2027 National Center for Family Philanthropy Fellow. With a career devoted to advocating for systematically oppressed communities, she previously led a family violence prevention and services organization, guiding it to substantial growth and improving housing strategies for victims of violence. Additionally, Dr. Penny founded Mary’s Grace Incorporated, a nonprofit organization focused on disability rights and inclusion. She also serves on the board of North Carolina Coalition to End Homelessness. She holds degrees from NC A&T State University, East Carolina University, Wake Forest University, and Campbell University, and is a lifelong resident of North Carolina, hailing from Leasburg. She and her partner Charles Penny, II are the parents of three and she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.