As the Kataly Foundation’s Director of Knowledge and Grants, Ray is responsible for designing and implementing the Foundation’s grants and data management solutions, grantmaking processes, and information systems, all with the express aim of delivering a grantee experience that centers equity and transparency.
Ray is a leader in the social impact sector with a track record of excellence in philanthropic operations, grantmaking, program management, and strategy development. Prior to entering philanthropy, Ray worked extensively in the field of education, expanding college access and career pathways for marginalized and underrepresented populations. A social worker by training, over the course of his career he has counseled court-involved youth, mentored children from low-income communities, and served as an employment specialist for young adults with developmental disabilities.
Ray‘s commitment to the liberation and empowerment of marginalized communities is rooted in his experience navigating urban poverty while growing up in his native borough of Queens, New York. As a former high school dropout and systems-impacted youth, Ray marries lived experience with philanthropic expertise in the service of transforming philanthropy and amplifying the voices of impacted communities.
On his days off, Ray can be found listening to 90’s hip-hop, arguing the merits of platonic philosophy, and enjoying time with his family.
Photo by Bethanie Hines