Mara A. O'Connell
Mara O’Connell is an experienced international development professional based in the New York City Metropolitan Area, with a career dedicated to advancing the missions of global non-profits through strategic fundraising, communications, and research-driven storytelling. She brings deep expertise in grant writing, editing, and donor engagement, supporting organizations that work across poverty alleviation, peacebuilding, climate and environmental research, and humanitarian action. Mara is known for her ability to translate complex research and programmatic work into compelling narratives that resonate with institutional funders and philanthropic partners.
Currently serving as Senior Manager of Institutional Giving at Innovations for Poverty Action, Mara leads foundation and institutional fundraising efforts to support evidence-based solutions that improve the lives of people living in poverty. Previously, she held senior development and philanthropy roles at organizations including The HALO Trust USA, the International Center for Transitional Justice, CDP, and EYElliance, where she managed foundation relations, donor communications, and grant portfolios across diverse issue areas and regions. Her work consistently bridges rigorous research, ethical development practice, and effective resource mobilization.
Mara holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Studies from Bard College and completed coursework in Irish Studies at University College Dublin. A skilled writer and researcher, she is passionate about the power of work, inclusion, and community engagement to improve well-being, and she actively contributes to conversations on mental health, climate action, and peacebuilding within the international development sector.
• Teaching English as a Second Language
• New York Institute of Photography
• The New School
• Harvard Extension School
• University College Dublin
• Bard College- Bachelor's
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being fiercely mission-driven and deeply curious about the world, which has guided my work with international NGOs for more than 25 years. Seeing programs firsthand and translating their impact into clear, compelling stories for donors has been my greatest strength and motivation.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be persistent and network intentionally—seek out as much experience as possible, especially through internships and opportunities abroad, and take them when they arise.