The new leader will help guide the foundation in its renewed focus to shift philanthropy to center community.
Seattle, Washington – January 30, 2026–The Magic Cabinet Board of Directors has selected C’Ardiss “CC” Gardner Gleser to serve as the organization’s new CEO. Gardner Gleser brings extensive experience in philanthropy, education, and social impact to the foundation, which supports local communities through an innovative, trusting approach to philanthropy.
With a career rooted in equity, systems change, and community-centered leadership, Gardner Gleser will help lead the organization into a new chapter aimed at transforming the philanthropic sector.
“I am excited to join Magic Cabinet because of its strong mission and its clear commitment to community-centered philanthropy,” Gardner Gleser said.
Gardner Gleser is a storyteller, strategist, and bridge-builder rooted in the pursuit of racial justice, healing, and joy. After beginning her career in tech, CC transitioned to nonprofit and philanthropic work. She was the first Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives at the Satterberg Foundation and now leads Black Ivy Collective, an initiative that supports philanthropic strategy, movement work, and healing spaces for artists, scholars, and changemakers.
“Much of my recent work has focused on deepening relational approaches within philanthropy, and Magic Cabinet feels like a place where that work can grow in partnership with staff, the board, and community and nonprofit partners to advance the organization’s mission,” Gardner Gleser said.
Over the past few years, Magic Cabinet has grown its team and work in ways that have strengthened its partnerships with nonprofits, funders, and communities. That growth enables Magic Cabinet to listen more closely, learn alongside the community, and support philanthropy in responding to real needs with care and flexibility.
Gardner Gleser’s leadership reflects Magic Cabinet’s approach to meeting the moment, and her voice points toward what this next chapter can hold for transforming philanthropy.
“Gardner Gleser’s experience aligns closely with Magic Cabinet’s belief that philanthropy should center community, build trust, and form long-term relationships,” said Ken Birdwell, Magic Cabinet Founder and Board Chairman. “Her commitment to equity, justice, and community power will be essential for helping the foundation transform methods of philanthropy that don’t adequately give weight to community voices.”
Magic Cabinet was founded on a simple belief: communities know what they need. For more than 15 years, the foundation has put that belief into practice through long-term, flexible funding and inviting nonprofits into shared decision-making. Today, Magic Cabinet brings nonprofits, communities, and philanthropy together to create partnerships that are more responsive, relational, and joyful.
About Magic Cabinet
Magic Cabinet envisions a philanthropic sector that actively empowers and generously invests in nonprofits. We aim to better serve communities by centering their wisdom and needs. We partner with nonprofits and funders through a relational approach that builds trust, strengthens collaboration, and makes partnership more joyful and lasting. Since 2019, Magic Cabinet has awarded over $50 million to nonprofits in California, Washington, and Puerto Rico.
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