Introducing the
fftc:FWD Team
Together for community
The fftc:FWD Team brings together leadership and staff from Foundation for the Carolinas (FFTC) and the Robinson Center for Civic Leadership (RCCL), alongside trusted external partners, to design, build, and launch fftc:FWD. FFTC owns and stewards the platform, providing strategic direction, operational leadership, and long‑term accountability for fftc:FWD’s success.
FFTC/RCCL Team
The Robinson Center for Civic Leadership at Foundation for the Carolinas serves as the owner, sponsor, and strategic lead for fftc:FWD. The Robinson Center team is responsible for setting the vision and strategy, overseeing platform operations, aligning civic leadership priorities, and ensuring integration with the foundation’s broader civic, grantmaking, and community impact work.
This team provides governance, coordination, and organizational support to partner organizations contributing to specialized expertise to fftc:FWD.
Tracy Russ
Senior Vice President,
Civic Leadership
Strategy + Impact
Ismael Salgado
Assistant Vice President,
Civic Leadership
Programs & Operations
Nicole Fote
Vice President,
Community Programs &
Civic Leadership
Hannah Latragna
Executive Assistant
to the President
Kim Zona
Executive Assistant,
Civic Leadership
Special thanks to SHARE Charlotte
SHARE Charlotte is a strategic partner of The Robinson Center for Civic Leadership at FFTC on multiple initiatives in the community. fftc:FWD Folios, Intersections, and Maps complement the volunteer and donation opportunities available through SHARE Charlotte. Together, SHARE Charlotte and fftc:FWD provide access to civic leadership in our community and empower everyone to participate in civic life.
Contractors & Partners
Kristen Bernier Design
Graphic design support for fftc:FWD includes
brand development, visual identity, and print and digital folio design, ensuring consistency across the platform.
Loyd Visuals
Loyd Visuals leads video storytelling and production for
fftc:FWD. The team is responsible for producing the folio videos, including creative direction, filming, coordination, and execution across all shoots.
Priceless Misc
Priceless Misc provides the
technology that powers fftc:FWD's 'Intersections', a leading platform that helps users create a personalized report that shows how multiple civic topics overlap and where action could start.
Rachel Sutherland Communications
Rachel Sutherland Communications develops the core narrative for fftc:FWD
folios. The team works closely with Lead Agencies and key stakeholders to shape content that reflects community impact and civic leadership.
Savvy Pioneer
Savvy Pioneer is responsible for website development, technical infrastructure, and content systems
supporting fftc:FWD, including creative content file management, data storage, and ongoing technical support.
Visible Network Labs
Visible Network Labs provides the Civic Maps technology that powers fftc:FWD, leading platform strategy and implementation for civic mapping and network visualization.