Aracelis Gray joined the DC Bar Foundation in June 2022 as the Director of Programs. In this role, she oversees the Foundation’s grantmaking programs and directs the work of the Programs team. Aracelis brings to the Foundation over 20 years of experience managing and leading programs and initiatives supporting children, youth, families, and communities. Before joining the DC Bar Foundation, Aracelis served as Director in ICF’s Child Welfare and Education practice group, where she had responsibility for overseeing a portfolio of projects designed to build the capacity of state education and child welfare agencies to improve outcomes for children, youth, and their families. Her experience includes a successful track record of providing strategic direction and generating revenue to meet organizational goals, leading project teams, designing monitoring processes and standards for delivering high-quality client services, and establishing and maintaining strategic partnerships with federal, state, and nonprofit organizations in support of existing and new engagements.
“I’ve always been passionate about helping others, particularly those who don’t have the means or access to the opportunities and resources necessary to reach their full potential. Although I’ve fulfilled this passion by volunteering in my community, joining the DC Bar Foundation gives me the chance to expand the reach of my efforts. I’m excited to join the DC Bar Foundation and play a small but important role in ensuring that all DC residents have access to justice.”
Aracelis received a Bachelor of Arts from William Smith College, a Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Michigan, and is a certified Project Management Professional.
During her spare time, Aracelis enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends, reading, baking, and running.