New Bedford, MA — The SouthCoast Community Foundation is proud to announce two key leadership appointments that will significantly enhance its strategic direction, community impact, and philanthropic innovation. Dianne Gauthier has been named Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), and Jess Haas, MBA, has been named Chief Advancement Officer (CAO). Both officially began their roles on Monday, March 10, 2025.
“We are excited to welcome Dianne and Jess to the Foundation,” said Melanie Edwards-Tavares, President and CEO. “Their leadership, experience, and dedication to mission-driven work will be critical to deepening our community impact and growing our philanthropic reach.”
Dianne Gauthier, Chief Strategy Officer
Dianne Gauthier brings over 15 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. She has a strong background in strategic planning, governance, and operational leadership. Most recently, she served as Director of Council Partnerships at Girl Scouts of the USA, supporting 111 councils nationwide. She also brings extensive experience as a consultant to major organizations such as the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving and Girl Scouts of Central Maryland, where she developed robust governance frameworks and volunteer engagement strategies.
Dianne Gauthier brings over 15 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. She has a strong background in strategic planning, governance, and operational leadership. Most recently, she served as Director of Council Partnerships at Girl Scouts of the USA, supporting 111 councils nationwide. She also brings extensive experience as a consultant to major organizations such as the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving and Girl Scouts of Central Maryland, where she developed robust governance frameworks and volunteer engagement strategies.
At SCCF, Dianne will guide strategic planning, strengthen governance structures, oversee communications, and lead initiatives such as Participatory Grantmaking and Nonprofit Resilience. She holds a degree from Babson College.
Jess Haas, MBA, Chief Advancement Officer
With over 20 years of experience in philanthropy and non-profit management, Jess Haas, has committed her career to supporting non-profit organizations’ critical mission work. She previously served in senior leadership roles at the National Brain Tumor Society, National Scleroderma Foundation, and Gordon College, where she led comprehensive philanthropy and fundraising strategies exceeding annual goals.
With over 20 years of experience in philanthropy and non-profit management, Jess Haas, has committed her career to supporting non-profit organizations’ critical mission work. She previously served in senior leadership roles at the National Brain Tumor Society, National Scleroderma Foundation, and Gordon College, where she led comprehensive philanthropy and fundraising strategies exceeding annual goals.
At SCCF, Jess will lead development efforts, expand donor relationships, and drive philanthropic investment to support the Foundation’s mission. Her expertise in cross-sector partnerships and donor-driven innovation will be key to advancing the Foundation’s strategic mission. She holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix and is an active community volunteer.
About the SouthCoast Community Foundation The SouthCoast Community Foundation is a tax-exempt public charity that connects donors with high-impact opportunities to improve quality of life across Southeastern Massachusetts. Managing over 200 funds, the Foundation has distributed more than $50 million to support education, culture, and humanitarian needs throughout the region.