Ellen C. O’Connell
Sankhara Consulting: Scaling nonprofits with purpose, strategy and impact - fundraising strategy, case for support development, messaging and branding, organizational strategy
Contact: Sankharallc@gmail.com
About Sankhara Consulting and Ellen:
At Sankhara Consulting, we specialize in helping nonprofits scale their impact while staying true to their mission. Sankhara has partnered with organizations of all sizes to scale their operations, develop impactful fundraising strategies, and strengthen brand identity, resulting in millions of dollars in revenue and transformative growth for nonprofits worldwide.
Led by Ellen C. O'Connell, a seasoned nonprofit executive with over 35 years of global experience, we provide tailored solutions to achieve sustainable growth.
Our services include:
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Messaging & Branding: Crafting clear, compelling narratives that resonate with your audience.
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Case for Support Development: Building powerful, mission-driven cases that inspire donors and stakeholders.
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Fundraising Strategy: Designing comprehensive plans to secure sustainable funding and diversify revenue streams.
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Organizational Strategy: Aligning operations, leadership, and systems to drive mission-focused growth.
Ellen’s credentials as a leader in nonprofit growth and financial turnaround come from 35 years of experience in the non profit sector, including past roles as CEO of Farm Sanctuary, President and CEO of Ngaren: The Museum of humankind in Kenya, Executive Director of Tusk USA, Vice President of the International Rescue Committee for 16 years, and Associate Executive Director of Covenant House New York. Her experience in organizational scaling, fundraising, and strategic planning makes her a trusted partner for nonprofits looking to overcome complex challenges and achieve long-term success.
Sankhara Consulting’s diverse clients include:
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Okapi Conservation Project (DRC)
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Wildlife Conservation Global
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Change a Life Bwindi (Uganda)
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Enarau Conservation (Kenya)
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Space for Giants (Africa)
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Mara Elephant Project (Kenya)
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Little Sun (Africa)
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IEEE Smart Village (Africa)
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Born Free USA (Africa)
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Terra Conservation Initiative (Global)
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Gallman International Foundation (Kenya)
Global Impact in Conservation and Sustainability
Areas of Expertise
Wildlife Conservation
Ellen’s passion for wildlife protection is reflected in her work with organizations like Tusk USA, where she led initiatives to address poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and biodiversity loss. As chair of the Wildlife Justice Commission Investigations, Ellen continues to work to fight illegal wildlife crime at a global level. She was instrumental in founding the One Mara Partnership, a collaborative conservation effort in Kenya’s Maasai Mara that unites conservationists, local communities, and international stakeholders. Ellen’s contributions to Ngaren: The Museum of Humankind further showcase her dedication to educating and inspiring future generations to protect our planet's natural heritage.
Environmental Sustainability
As a leader in the environmental space, Ellen has consistently advocated for solutions that tackle climate change and promote sustainability. Her work with Little Sun, Tusk USA, Ngaren: The Museum of Human Kind, Mara Elephant Project, the One Mara Partnership, Farm Sanctuary and other NGO's is all connected by the theme of hope for a future world with more sustainable, ethical and just systems. Ellen is a sought-after thought leader, frequently speaking on the critical need for intersectional approaches to environmental sustainability.
Humanitarian Aid
With 16 years at the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Ellen played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s operations during its rapid growth. Her work included overseeing the supply chain, board relations, and all business functions, which were vital to supporting humanitarian efforts worldwide. Ellen's ongoing involvement with the Good Shepherd International Foundation (GSIF) continues her commitment to aiding marginalized communities, focusing on providing education, healthcare, and sustainable development opportunities to women and children in vulnerable regions.
Fundraising and Strategy
Ellen’s leadership extends beyond her roles in individual organizations. As the founder and president of Sankhara Inc., Ellen advises international non-profits on strategic development, partnerships, and fundraising. Her leadership style, rooted in fostering collaboration and long-term impact, has been essential in driving sustainable growth and achieving organizational goals. She is known for her expertise in guiding non-profits through periods of transformation, ensuring both financial health and cultural inclusivity.
Notable Projects
Ellen C. O'Connell has been at the helm of several transformative initiatives that have had lasting impacts on conservation, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian aid. Her leadership and vision have brought groundbreaking projects to life across the globe.
Ngaren: The Museum of Humankind, Kenya
Ellen played a key role in the development of the Masterplan for Ngaren: The Museum of Humankind, a visionary project spearheaded by renowned paleoanthropologist Richard Leakey. Located in Kenya, this museum was designed to educate visitors on the history of humankind, our evolution, and our shared responsibility to protect the planet. As the founding CEO, Ellen shaped the concept for the museum, working with world class partners, Weta, Ralph Applebaum Associates, and the Naturalis Biodiversity Center.
One Mara Partnership, Maasai Mara
Ellen helped developed the concept for the creation of the One Mara Partnership, an innovative collaboration that unites local communities, conservationists, and international stakeholders to protect the unique ecosystems of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. By bringing together key players, Ellen has helped facilitate conservation efforts that prioritize sustainability and community involvement, ensuring that both wildlife and local livelihoods are supported. The partnership is a model for how conservation can be achieved through cooperation and mutual benefit.
Strategic Transformation at Farm Sanctuary
As CEO of Farm Sanctuary, Ellen oversaw the strategic transformation of one of the world’s leading organizations dedicated to animal welfare and environmental sustainability. Under her leadership, Farm Sanctuary achieved significant financial stabilization, including a $2 million annual revenue increase and a 12% reduction in expenses. Ellen introduced a strategic shift in how the organization addresses the links between animal agriculture, climate change, and social justice, positioning Farm Sanctuary as a leader in the fight for a sustainable, ethical, just and healthy future food system.
Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC) Investigations Board
Ellen chairs the Wildlife Justice Commission's Investigations Board, which is dedicated to combatting transnational wildlife crime. In this role, she oversees high-level investigations that aim to disrupt illegal wildlife trade and prosecute those responsible for these crimes. Her work with the WJC has been crucial in protecting endangered species and bringing attention to the global issue of wildlife trafficking.
Personal Life
Beyond her career in conservation, humanitarian aid, and leadership, Ellen frequently presents at conferences and on panels, sharing her expertise and insights on these critical issues. Ellen has also contributed to academic communities as a visiting lecturer and adjunct professor at esteemed institutions, including New York Medical College, Cornell University, Harvard School of Nonprofit Management, and Brown University. Her academic qualifications include doctoral coursework in Cultural Anthropology from the CUNY Graduate Center, an Executive Management Program for Non-Profit Executives from Columbia University, an MA in Cultural Anthropology from the New School for Social Research, an MPA in International Development from NYU Wagner, and a BA in English from Georgetown University. Ellen’s commitment to education and advocacy extends to her active participation on the boards of various organizations focused on conservation and social justice. She splits her time between the fast-paced environment of New York City and the tranquil landscapes of Utah.