Welcoming Barry Cunningham to the ElevateDD Team

I recently joined ElevateDD as the Senior Manager of Finance & Administration, and I'm honored to be part of an organization so deeply committed to creating meaningful impact and supporting people and families with care and intention.

I'm originally from West Virginia, but I've called the Columbus area home for over 20 years, and mission-driven work has always been a natural fit for me. Over the course of my career, I've had the chance to support non-profits, energy companies, and financial institutions, but it's the non-profit work that has consistently felt the most meaningful. When the opportunity at ElevateDD came along, I was drawn to the organization's focus on the developmentally disabled community and its particular dedication to individuals with Down Syndrome and their families here in Central Ohio. Getting to know the team only confirmed what I'd hoped: this is a place where people lead with heart, integrity, and genuine care for the community they serve.

In my role, I oversee the financial health of the organization, from budgeting and financial reporting to grant accounting and ensuring our resources are managed responsibly and transparently. I believe strong financial stewardship is one of the quiet but essential pieces that allows an organization to focus on its mission with confidence. I've always found real satisfaction in building sound financial systems and processes, because when the numbers are in order, our team can spend more of their time and energy on the people we're here to serve.

Before joining ElevateDD, I spent nearly two decades building a career in finance and accounting, including bookkeeping and staff accounting for a portfolio of non-profit clients, financial and risk management leadership in the energy sector, and earlier roles in banking and financial advisory. Along the way, I've developed a deep appreciation for the discipline, accountability, and care that good financial management requires, especially within organizations doing work that truly matters.

I earned my B.A. in Economics and Spanish from Bucknell University, graduating cum laude. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my husband, JT Tackett, and our 14-year-old son, along with family and friends. I'm grateful to be part of the ElevateDD team and excited to bring my skills to an organization whose mission I believe in wholeheartedly.