Ellen Howes serves as Director of Campaign and Major Gifts at Reading Is Fundamental (RIF). In this role, she partners with philanthropic individuals, families, and family foundations to advance RIF’s mission, helping guide the organization’s campaign and major gifts strategy to inspire the joy of reading in children nationwide.

Prior to joining RIF, Ellen held development roles at Challenger Center, American University, and the National Museum of Women in the Arts, where she cultivated relationships in support of education and the arts. She brings a deep commitment to connecting generous individuals with meaningful opportunities to support causes that expand access to learning.

Ellen is an active member of the philanthropic sector and has shared her insights with peers at conferences including AFP ICON and Bridge. She is also a member of Impact100 DC, a women’s collective giving organization that supports local nonprofits through transformational grants.

She holds a B.A. in English and Comparative Literature from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Outside of work, she enjoys ballet classes and curling up with a good book.