Meet the Executive Team
Christina Hall
Executive Director
Christina Hall is a dynamic leader with a unique blend of nonprofit expertise and military discipline. With over 15 years in the nonprofit sector and two decades of military service under her belt, Christina embodies the values of service, dedication, and strategic thinking.
At the helm of Hope Ignites New York, Christina provides steadfast leadership, driving alignment of activities and teams with a clear strategic vision towards growth. Her wealth of experience in fundraising and organizational leadership is unparalleled, making her a cornerstone in the sector.
Specializing in building robust systems within organizations and nurturing donor relationships, Christina’s strategic capacity is evident in her ability to create impactful programs that inspire philanthropic support at unprecedented levels, raising more than $50 million for nonprofits to date. Her goal is clear: to ensure that the needs of an organization’s constituents are met with unwavering dedication and support.
Christina’s academic achievements further underscore her commitment to excellence. Equipped with an associate degree in information management from the Air Force, two business degrees, and a master’s degree in public administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management from Northeastern University, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every endeavor.
Ms. Hall is also an active Reservist with the United States Air Force and served four years on active duty with the United States Army. Her service has taken her to diverse locations such as South Korea, Portugal, Colorado, and Delaware, where she has showcased her leadership
and dedication to duty.
Driven by a passion for making a difference, Christina Hall is not just a leader; she’s a catalyst for positive change, transforming visions into realities and inspiring others to join her in the pursuit of a better world.
Lena Washington
Chief Program Officer
Lena Washington’s professional journey in the non-profit sector spans over two decades, during which she has dedicated her career to supporting underserved communities and creating opportunities for youth to succeed. Her academic foundation, a testament to her intellectual prowess, was laid at the esteemed College of New Rochelle, where she earned her BA, and was
further strengthened by an MA in English Education from Brooklyn College. She began her career as a teacher in the New York City school system, but her understanding that the world had more to offer youth led her to seek better pathways for them to discover their purpose.
Her passion for education and youth empowerment led her to transition into donor relations at City Harvest, where she honed her fundraising and community outreach skills. She then spent a decade at the Harlem Children Zone, rising to the position of Senior Director of high school programs. In this role, she led the development and implementation of innovative programs to support over 1400 students annually in achieving academic success, preparing for college and careers via managing five program sites with an over 20-million-dollar budget, and leading a team of over 100 members. While also attaining certification from Columbia University in NonProfit Executive Leadership.
Throughout her career, Lena has not only demonstrated a solid commitment to social justice and equity but also a remarkable prowess in program development and strategic planning. Her advocacy for the needs of marginalized populations and her tireless efforts to create a more inclusive society are a testament to her dedication. Her expertise in youth development, talent
development/retention, and community engagement makes her an invaluable asset to Hope Ignites New York, as she is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
