ASHLEY SIFERD BUTLER

Director of Competitive Grants

PLEASE CONTACT ME WHEN:

I am primarily contacted with questions about our competitive grantmaking for our field-of-interest and affiliate funds. Need help accessing our online grant portal? Questions about the application or focus areas? Want to get a general overview of our competitive grants? I’m your person!

ON A TYPICAL WORKDAY I’LL BE:

You’ll find me reviewing grant applications, performing due diligence, working with nonprofits and our volunteer grant panels, and providing technical assistance for our grant portal. There is never a dull moment, and while I may be in the midst of one fund’s grant cycle, I am also looking ahead and gearing up for the next one.

I CHOSE THIS WORK BECAUSE:

I enjoy helping connect philanthropic dollars to the organizations in our community doing vital work and service for others. Each fund I work with is unique in its geographic footprint and charitable focus, and I appreciate getting to see a wide variety of grants support our East Tennessee neighbors as they thrive and accomplish their goals and dreams.

MORE ABOUT ME: 

Prior to joining the ETF team, I worked in communications and special events with Cancer Support Community East Tennessee and served as an international volunteer with Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos in El Salvador. I graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a minor in Spanish, y sí hablo español! I grew up in Loudon County (Go LoCo!) and have lived in Knox and Sevier counties. I’m a certified yoga teacher and amateur hiker. My spouse Will and I enjoy comedic chaos and are parents of two cats and two dogs named Beanee Weenee, Thomas Divide, Max, and Oscar.