In 2024, Julia Pettengill expanded her commitment to social change by joining Fathers’ UpLift. As the Executive Director of the Schooner Foundation, a Boston-based private foundation dedicated to advancing human rights, Julia brings a wealth of experience to her new role. The Foundation prides itself on targeting funds to where they can have the most significant impact, encompassing social justice, global health equity, education, economic opportunities, and environmental sustainability, both domestically and internationally. Julia’s leadership is pivotal in setting the strategic direction and managing the grant-making processes of the Foundation.

Her professional background is diverse, encompassing international development, nonprofit leadership, capacity building, and fundraising. Julia’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education from the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Her dedication to social betterment is further demonstrated through her involvement on the board of Friendship Bench and the Advisory Councils for Harvard Medical School’s Global Health and Service Delivery and the HEAL Initiative.

Julia has also contributed her expertise to several important causes and organizations in the past, such as the Network of Engaged International Donors, the National Cancer Institute’s Pediatric Leukemia and Lymphoma Steering Committee, and serving as co-chair for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute’s pediatric patient and family advisory council. Her decision to join Fathers’ UpLift in 2024 reflects her ongoing commitment to making a significant impact in communities and her dedication to leveraging her skills and experience in new and meaningful ways.