Carleigh McDonald

Carleigh McDonald is a seasoned professional in philanthropy and campaign management, currently serving as the Managing Campaign Director for the Island-Ocean Connection Challenge at Island Conservation since January 2023. Prior experience includes significant roles at California College of the Arts, where Carleigh advanced from Director of Leadership and Planned Gifts to Senior Director of Advancement between December 2017 and January 2023. Prior to that, positions at the California Academy of Sciences and Ocean Conservancy included Associate Director of Major Gifts and Associate Director of Individual Philanthropy, respectively. Carleigh's career began with roles at Salzburg Global Seminar and GuideStar, focusing on individual giving and research. Educational qualifications include a Bachelor's Degree in International Communication and Non-Profit Management from the University of San Diego, along with studies at the University of Oxford and a semester abroad with Semester At Sea.