Jean K. Ries is a Civil Society and Leadership program officer at the Packard Foundation where she oversees the Foundation’s work in strengthening leaders, organizations, and movements and promoting thriving civic spaces. Prior to Jean’s time at the Packard Foundation, she spent over 20 years working in the nonprofit and philanthropic sector as a strategy consultant and leadership coach.
Jean is fueled by a deep commitment to thriving organizations and leaders and has dedicated her career to the importance of clear strategies, strong infrastructure, and leadership sustainability. She believes deeply in investing in people and their wellbeing, and promoting a thriving nonprofit, public and civic sector.
Jean holds a Bachelor of Arts from Vassar College, where she majored in Women’s Studies and Philosophy, and holds a Master of Public Administration with a focus on Nonprofit Management, from New York University’s Wagner Graduate School of Public Service. She spent the first 30 years of her life in New York City and now lives in San Mateo with her two children and husband. She enjoys playing at the beach with her family, hiking, meditating, and taking long walks in her neighborhood. Jean’s hobby job is as a fitness instructor at Equinox, a luxury fitness club.