After the death from brain cancer of his late wife, Barbara McDowell, in 2009, Jerry Hartman established the Barbara McDowell Foundation to commemorate her life and passion for social justice. Since then, he has served as the Foundation’s President and Board Chair, guiding it to a nationally recognized charitable institution.

Bob retired from the partnership at Latham & Watkins in June 2020. During his 18 years at Latham, Bob was a member of the firm’s Litigation Department focused on white collar criminal defense and investigations, served on a number of firm management committees, and received the Robert M. Dell Prize for Extraordinary Pro Bono Service.

Maria serves as the Foundation’s Vice-President, where she assists in guiding and overseeing the executive responsibilities and strategic direction of the Foundation.

Maria previously served as the Commissioner of the New York State Division of Human Rights, CEO of the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester and Executive Director of the New York City Bar Justice Center.

She is a graduate of Harvard University, the NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, and Harvard Law School. Throughout her career, Maria has been dedicated to increasing access to justice and community building. 

Danielle manages the operations and administrative functions of the Barbara McDowell Public Interest Law Center including external relations, internal systems, and board management. Danielle holds her Master’s degree in Social Work with a Community and Policy focus from Temple University, and has over 10 years of experience in the nonprofit sector.

Wyndy leads our development team and comes to us with fifteen years of experience in fundraising, communications, and strategic development. She holds her Master’s in Fundraising and Philanthropy from New York University and her Bachelor’s in Advertising from The University of Texas

Gia is a seasoned brand marketing manager with 15 years experience in the dynamic and fast-paced advertising industry. Throughout her career, she had the opportunity to work in diverse and vibrant locations such as Dubai, Beirut, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Passionate about equality, Gia joins us as our Social Media Administrator to create powerful storytelling and engaging visuals. She aims to amplify voices, spark conversations, and drive meaningful change.