DEANNA PETERSEN

Deanna launched Ignite Impact after 25 years of working with global companies, foundations and non-profits to advance sustainable social good. She has worked across global development and health sectors with a focus on strategy, program design, communications and advocacy. 

Previously, Deanna led global social impact partnerships for food and agriculture leader Cargill, corporate affairs for its largest business group and executive speech writing. In these roles, she managed issues across 70 countries, positioned leaders and managed a global grantmaking portfolio of more than $30 million USD focused on human rights, farmer livelihoods, food security and equity. 

 

Prior to joining Cargill, Deanna led reputation management for GHR Foundation. She also served as a vice president with public relations firm Weber Shandwick, where she helped launch Weber Shandwick Africa working with clients across 23 African countries.

 

Deanna developed integrated reputation management strategies for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Nigeria’s Ministry of Agriculture, The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa, GlaxoSmithKline, Save the Children, the U.S. government and others. Deanna has also served as the communications director for Big Brothers Big Sisters and the African American Adoption Agency.

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Deanna maps optimistic solutions that deliver tangible results. She cares deeply about the people that champion change every day.