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Research Team

Women in Philanthropy

Lisa Trefzger Clarke, Ph.D.

Principal Investigator

Dr. Lisa Trefzger Clarke is an educator, scholar and social justice advocate living on the Treaty 20 and Williams Treaties’ traditional lands of the Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg. She’s the daughter of a German immigrant and German-Jewish refugee, and identifies as queer and disabled. With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit work and leadership, she now researches the intersections of feminist care work, policy, legislation and frontline practice. Her scholarship includes intersectional feminism, adult and transformative learning, public education, feminist psychotherapy, and the voluntary sector. Lisa is a postdoctoral researcher in the MPNL program.

See Lisa’s full bio.

Susan Phillips, Professor Emerita

Research Supervisor

Dr. Susan Phillips is Professor Emerita in the School of Public Policy and Administration and established Carleton’s Master of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership program. Viewing philanthropy as an exercise of citizenship – how people engage in and with their communities – Susan’s work considers how the nonprofit sector creates social change and the dynamic relationship between government and civil society. She co-authored the first international handbook on philanthropy for Routledge. Susan’s research now focuses on women in leadership roles within public and non-profit sectors. 

See Susan’s full bio.

Allison Norris, PhD Candidate

Research Associate

Allison Norris is a researcher and educator pursuing her PhD in Communication and Media Studies at Carleton University after working in the public service for 15 years. Allison’s creative practice in film and theatre informs her teaching focus in media, gender, culture, intersectional feminisms, and activism. Allison’s research includes media production and distribution, the Canadian food system, and policy analysis, with a focus on innovation and impacts by underrepresented groups, including women and 2SLGBTQ+ peoples.

Nada Jama, Master’s Student

Research Assistant

Nada Jama is a graduate student pursuing a Master of Public Policy and Administration with a Data Science specialization at Carleton University. She holds an undergraduate degree in Health Sciences from the University of Ottawa. Nada held previous posts in data analysis, student research, and as a Co-Chair of the uOttawa Relay for Life Committee. Now her studies focus on policy innovation and governance, as well as exploring how data can inform decision-making.  

Roslyn Bern

Supporter

Roslyn Bern is an educator, businesswoman, philanthropist, and president of the Leacross Foundation. She is committed to creating opportunities for women and girls, particularly in education and STEM fields. She has received honorary degrees, awards, and sits on several boards for organizations aimed at empowering women and girls. Roslyn has been longtime supporter of Carleton students and the Women in Philanthropy project is supported by Roslyn and the Leacross Foundation.