Dawn Alston Paige
Durham,NC
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven leader with a proven track record in financial management, community development, and nonprofit leadership. Successfully managed multi-million-dollar funds and spearheaded equity-driven initiatives, resulting in significant economic and workforce development. Known for strong analytical skills, strategic planning, and effective stakeholder engagement. Adept at budget management and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Fiscal Analyst
City of Durham, NC – Community Development Department
07.2023 - Current
- Assist in cash management of $100 million in federal grants, including CDBG, HOME, ESG, and HOPWA, and Capital Improvement Funds ensuring compliance with federal regulations and local priorities
- Use financial tools to maintain detailed reports to track expenditures and assess program performance
- Ensure compliance with organizational policies, governmental regulations, and industry best practices.
- Enhance fiscal accountability with thorough internal audits and timely resolution of discrepancies.
Founder and President
Concerned Black American Citizens, Inc. (CBAC, Inc.)
01.2019 - Current
- Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering communities of Black American Negro Descendants (BAND) through advocacy, workforce development, and environmental justice programs
- Administering $30,000 grant pool, including BELDI Fellowship and Voices 4 Our Community, ensuring less than 14% administrative costs
- Developed BELDI Fellowship workforce development initiative connecting underserved residents to clean energy careers, funded through private grants
- Created CCEJ40 Cohort collaborative network of nine grassroots organizations across seven states, fostering environmental and economic justice
- Lead fiscal oversight, grant management, and compliance reporting to ensure financial transparency and operational efficiency
- Facilitate technical assistance workshops and capacity-building programs for grassroots organizations, enabling equitable access to funding opportunities
Project Manager & Development Consultant
Legacy Consulting LLC
11.2019 - 01.2023
- Conducted economic impact studies and stakeholder surveys, providing strategic recommendations for HUBs, M/WBEs, and underserved communities
- Drafted legislative policy briefs advocating equitable resource access
- Trained community organizers on civic engagement, policy writing, and campaign strategies
- Led consensus-building efforts, managing communication between stakeholders and elected officials
Chief Executive Manager
Empress Development LLC
05.2012 - 02.2019
- Managed boutique real estate development firm, overseeing acquisition, renovation, and sale of properties
- Successfully acquired and renovated 9,200 sq ft commercial property
- Mixed-use property below market value and sold it for $2.45 million, earning 'Outstanding Downtown Renovation Project' award
Portfolio Manager, Executive Vice President
Piedmont Investment Advisors LLC
08.2000 - 12.2011
- Co-founded and co-managed an institutional asset management firm overseeing $13 billion in retirement assets under management
- Directed investment strategies, client acquisition, and service while leading a team of five professionals
- Managed diverse portfolios, ensuring proper diversification and alignment with client objectives.
- Communicated market developments, portfolio changes and annual performance information to clients.
- Implemented robust compliance measures to adhere to regulatory requirements while managing client assets effectively.
- Evaluated potential alternative investments such as private equity funds or hedge funds as part of a broader effort to diversify client portfolios.
Education
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Certification -
CFA Institute
Chicago, IL01.2012
MBA - Finance and Accounting
University of Michigan - Ross School of Business
Ann Arbor, MI01.1992
Bachelor of Science - Public Relations, Journalism
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA01.1987
Skills
- Fiscal Sponsorship/Asset Management
- Nonprofit Leadership and Program Development
- Federal Grant Management (CDBG, HOME, ESG, HOPWA)
- Strategic Planning & Policy Writing
- Community and Economic Development
- Cash flow management/Cost analysis
- Community Surveying & Outreach
Civicengagement
- Chair, Participatory Budget Steering Committee, Oversaw a $2.4 million budget to enhance civic participation in Durham, NC, 01/01/22, 12/31/24
- Commissioner, One High Point Commission, Researched reparations strategies for Black Americans in High Point, NC, 01/01/22, 12/31/23
Timeline
Fiscal Analyst
City of Durham, NC – Community Development Department
07.2023 - Current
Project Manager & Development Consultant
Legacy Consulting LLC
11.2019 - 01.2023
Founder and President
Concerned Black American Citizens, Inc. (CBAC, Inc.)
01.2019 - Current
Chief Executive Manager
Empress Development LLC
05.2012 - 02.2019
Portfolio Manager, Executive Vice President
Piedmont Investment Advisors LLC
08.2000 - 12.2011
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Certification -
CFA Institute
MBA - Finance and Accounting
University of Michigan - Ross School of Business
Bachelor of Science - Public Relations, Journalism
Virginia Commonwealth University
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