Pastel Dunn
Assistant Vice President, Strategic Impact Investment Fund Operations
Pastel K. Dunn is a proven nonprofit and higher education leader with more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, development operations and strategic planning. In her current role, she helps guide the operational framework for UNCF’s historic $1 billion capital campaign, working closely with senior leadership to shape campaign priorities, strengthen systems, and drive sustainable growth for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Before joining UNCF, where she has held progressive leadership roles, Ms. Dunn held senior development positions with the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, and the National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities.
Ms. Dunn is currently pursuing her PhD in higher education leadership at Notre Dame of Maryland University. Her doctoral research explores the intersection of philanthropy, student retention, institutional sustainability and organizational change, reflecting her commitment to advancing equity and strengthening higher education.
Guided by the belief that education is a catalyst for change, Ms. Dunn is passionate about building inclusive teams, leveraging philanthropy to empower students and creating pathways that ensure long-term institutional success.