Danielle Higa

She/Her/Hers

Senior Associate

I am based in: Seattle, WA

My strengths are: Fundraising, community engagement, strategic leadership, cross-cultural collaboration, advocacy and empowerment, mission-driven focus

I identify as: Millennial parent, Japanese American (yonsei), Justice Defender, Rhythm Renegade, Good vibes, Seattleite, Style Enthusiast, Food lover, Dog devotee, and 90s Nostalgia

Danielle brings to NPAG a rich tapestry of 14 years of nonprofit, community relations, and fundraising experience, spanning a diverse array of organizations from grassroots community initiatives to esteemed institutions in higher education. Her expertise in search portfolio management encompasses pivotal areas such as reproductive health and justice, social justice, and arts and culture.

Notably, Danielle's tenure as the inaugural Fund Development Manager at Densho, a Seattle-based organization dedicated to preserving and disseminating the Japanese American WWII incarceration experience, underscores her ability to cultivate robust development programs. Over five years, she spearheaded initiatives that significantly bolstered support and community engagement on a national scale, leaving an indelible mark on the organization's trajectory.

Prior to her transformative role at Densho, Danielle played integral roles within the University of Washington's College of Arts & Sciences Advancement and Regional Advancement teams. Her dynamic contributions as Campaign Assistant and Assistant Director for Advancement for Southern California underscore her adeptness in driving fundraising and alumni engagement efforts.

Danielle's commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration is exemplified through her active involvement with the U.S. Japan Council since 2017. As an alumnus of the organization's prestigious Emerging Leaders Program, she continues to play a pivotal role in bridging relationships and nurturing community engagement efforts in the Pacific Northwest Region.

Drawing from her academic background in American Ethnic Studies with a focus on Asian American Studies from the University of Washington, Danielle advocates for the power of history to inform and empower future generations. Rooted in her own family narrative and community engagement endeavors, she champions the invaluable lessons gleaned from the past as catalysts for healing and societal progress.

In her journey to NPAG, Danielle brings a profound appreciation for mission-driven organizations and their profound impact on the communities they serve. Residing in Seattle with her husband Francis, two children, and their beloved canine companions, Danielle continues to be driven by her passion for effecting positive change and advancing meaningful causes.

More About Danielle

Is there a quote that inspires you? "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." - Noxeema Jackson

What lasting change do you want your work to have? Advancing social justice, promoting reproductive health and rights, empowering communities and creating a more equitable, healthy, and thriving society for all.

If you could give a 10-minute presentation on any subject, what would it be? The Fast and the Furious Franchise

What’s the number one priority for your lifetime? Kindness.