Our Board Members are amazing! For over a decade, they have committed whole-heartedly to providing access to clean water for the people of Burundi. We want you to get to know the people who make the mission possible.
Natalie Brown serves as Secretary of our Board and has been a valued asset since she joined the board nearly three years ago. Natalie has a background in technology and has served on several charitable boards. Her experience and ability to foresee potential issues, and analytical thought process has ensured the success of many of our events and general fundraising goals.
How did you get connected to the Gazelle Foundation?
I first got to know Gilbert in 2011 as my sons' cross country and track coach and assisted him as a team parent for five years. I loved working with and supporting Gilbert because his joy and enthusiasm are so contagious. I learned about the Gazelle Foundation through this relationship and began attending the Spring For The Water fundraiser each spring. Later, I joined the committee responsible for planning S4TW and got to know the executive director and other board members and thoroughly enjoyed working with the group.
What motivated you to join the Board?
I believe in the work the Foundation is doing, and I understand the huge importance of access to clean water through my personal experience living in China. As I mentioned, I really enjoyed working with Gilbert and the people on the S4TW committee and wanted to be more directly involved in bringing clean water to communities in Burundi. So it was a natural segue to transition from team parent, to committee, to board member.
How does your unique background and perspective help move the mission forward?
My background in technology, volunteering, and board membership, as well as living in China has given me a range of experiences in managing teams, projects, and data, as well as learning to be a creative problem solver. My time in China made me acutely aware of how the lack of access to clean water impacts health, sanitation, living conditions, and every day chores. With this perspective, it's an honor to be a part of a team that is transforming lives in Burundi by building water systems and bringing access to clean water to children, schools, health clinics, and villages!
What accomplishments or projects keep you motivated and engaged in the Gazelle Foundation mission?
It's been a very interesting time having joined the board just before COVID arrived. We were just a month away from our spring fundraising event, Spring For The Water, when we had to pivot to a virtual event, and re-plan everything in a matter of weeks. I stay motivated working with such creative and energetic board members and always trying to find new and unique ways to engage the community in learning about and supporting our mission. The lesson learned through COVID is to think outside the box of traditional events. I'm particularly excited about how much our sustaining membership has grown this past year. It's wonderful to see so many sustaining donors committed to our mission for the long-term.
What do you like to do in your (limited!) spare time?
I like to hike and take long walks with my husband, spend time with family, travel, check out local wineries, attend UT football games, and catch-up on never-ending projects at home. (Well, maybe this last one isn't something I "like" to do!)
What book is on your nightstand currently? Any recent favorites you'd like to share and why you like them?
My favorite books are the mystery genre. I particularly like series because you get to know the characters more in-depth as they're developed from book to book. The Lincoln Rhyme series by Jeffery Deaver is one of my top picks. I admire his technical and analytical problem solving skills.
And recent favorite movies, music, or podcasts? Why are they favorites?
A current series I've really enjoyed is Ted Lasso. More than just the humor, I appreciate Ted's big heart and desire to do more than win games, but make a true difference in the lives of his players. I also really like to watch historical fiction and learn about events from different time periods. Some recent favorites are The Last Kingdom and The Vikings. For music - I'm a C&W fan!