Ogonnaya Newman is a passionate environmental health and justice advocate and a seasoned grantmaker with over two decades of experience. In her most recent role she supported a team of dynamic organizers, researchers, activists, and leaders in their effort to create dynamic programs in the pursuit of liberation. Prior to this role she stewarded over one hundred million dollars to organizations working to find complex solutions in the pursuit of clean indoor and outdoor air. Ogonnaya is passionate about building connections across progressive social justice and movement organizations to bridge the divide between organizing, advocacy, and research. Her background spans nonprofit, local government, academic and philanthropic sectors, emphasizing community-based participatory research and collaborative partnerships.

With a Master's in Public Health focused on Environmental Health, Ogonnaya offers a multidisciplinary perspective to complex issues, exemplified by her innovative use of methodologies like Photovoice in housing and health research. Her exceptional communication skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously make her an effective leader in her field. Her career embodies the interconnectedness of environmental health, social justice, and community empowerment, making her a powerful force for positive change.