Jeanina Messerly

Jeanina Juanita Messerly is a queer mixed-race Chicano/ Detribalized Indigenous nonprofit professional with a focus on equity in education by eliminating institutional racism within our systems. As the Project Manager for the Fund WA Coalition, Jeanina leads a robust decision-making framework, ensuring the work is impactful and aligned with strategic objectives.

Formerly a political organizer and strategist, Jeanina directed advocacy and turnout efforts for several nonprofit organizations such as Fuse Washington, Progressive Turnout Project, Latino Political Network, and LULAC Iowa. In 2022, they supported Washington State’s 8th and 3rd Congressional District Democratic races and led Our Votes Count, an independent expenditure campaign that provides electoral support for races that sit at the margin of victory. Their advocacy work has also included defending reproductive health care access and educating others on the need for government funded abortion services. Planned Parenthood North Central States awarded them a 2019 Planned Parenthood Champions award for these efforts.

Jeanina’s career is marked by a series of successful project outcomes, including securing a transformative $1.2 million grant, which not only expanded organizational capacity but also solidified crucial partnerships with major foundations. Jeanina is also featured in the children’s book, “From Here & Queer” by Katy Swalwell.