Commission on Poverty Debra Kilpatrick Byrd Confirmation Resolution of 2026

M
URIEL BOWSER
MAYOR
February 2, 2025
The Honorable Phil Mendelson
Chairman
Council of the District of Columbia
John A. Wilson Building
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 504
Washington, DC 20004
Dear Chairman Mendelson:
In accordance with section
2 of the Confirmation Act of 1978, effective March 3, 1979 (D.C. Law 2-
142; D.C. Official Code § 1- 523.01), and pursuant to section 102 of the Commission on Poverty
Establishment Amendment Act of 2020, effective March 16, 2021 (D.C. Law 23-184; D.C. Official
Code § 3-641.02), I am pleased to nominate the following individual:
Ms. Debra Kilpatrick Byrd
New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20005
(Ward 5)
for reappointment as an at -large representative member of t he Commission on Poverty for a term to
end November 18, 2028.
Enclosed, you will find biographical information detailing the experience of the above-m entioned
nominee, together with a proposed resolution to assist the Council during the confirmation process.
I would appreciate the Council’s earliest consideration of this nomination for confirmation. Please
do not hesitate to contact me, or Steven Walker, Director, Mayor’s Office of Talent and
Appointments, should the Council require additional information.
Sincerely,
Muriel B owser
Mayor
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~ Chairman Phil Mendelson
at the request of the Mayor
A PROPOSED RESOLUTION
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
To confirm the reappointment of Debra Kilpatrick Byrd to the Commission on Poverty.
RESOLVED , BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the "Commission on Poverty Debra Kilpatrick Byrd Confirmation
Resolution of 2026".
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia confirms the reappointment of:
Debra Kilpatrick Byrd
New York A venue, NW
Washington, DC 20005
(Ward 5)
as an at-large representative member of the Commission on Poverty, established by section 102
of the Commission on Poverty Establishment Amendment Act of 2020, effective March 16, 2021
(D.C. Law 23-184; D.C. Official Code§ 3-641.02), for a term to end November 18, 2028.
Sec. 3. The Council of the District of Columbia shall transmit a copy of this resolution,
upon its adoption, to the nominee and to the Office of the Mayor.
Sec. 4. This resolution shall take effect immediately.
Debra Kilpatrick Byrd
Senior Leader |Contracts & Grants | Non-Profit Executive | Strategic Partnerships
Strategic and accomplished Program Executive with a proven track record of leading impactful initiatives across diverse sectors,
including non-profit organizations, government agencies, and private enterprises. Extensive experience in orchestrating complex projects,
optimizing operational processes, and securing significant funding to advance mission -critical objectives. Expertise in social services is
demonstrated by designing and implementing targeted programs that address community needs, foster adult engagement , and collect
essential data to inform program development.
 Skilled in cultivating and sustaining strategic relationships with donors, stakeholders, and government entities, effectively
advocating for vulnerable populations and aligning resources with organizational goals .
 Leadership in community engagement has led to the successful expansion of service offerings and enhanced program delivery,
ensuring initiatives are both effective and sustainable.
 Proficient in leading cross-functional teams, managing budgets, and overseeing project lifecycles to execute high-impact programs.
Core Competencies
Stakeholder Relations, Program Management, Strategic Planning, Community Engagement, Fundraising & Development, Operational
Optimization, Budget Management, Contract & Regulatory Compliance, Data-Driven Decision Making, High-Risk Program
Management, Cross-Functional Leadership, Outreach & Advocacy, Resource Allocation, Partnership Development, Mission-Driven
Leadership, Performance Metrics Analysis, Donor Cultivation & Stewardship, Risk Management, Team Development & Training,
Process Improvement
Certifications & Appointments
At-Large Member, DC Commission on Poverty; National Disaster Trainee; Safe from Harm Designee
Professional Experience
Director of Impact and Development
Hillcrest Children & Family Center, Washington, DC October, 2024 - Present
Fundraising Execution
▪ Cultivate and secure significant financial grants and gifts by employing diverse and effective funding opportunities.
▪ Formulate targeted communications to achieve annual fundraising goals.
Development Planning
▪ Formulate and execute comprehensive development strategies that include in-depth donor research, cultivation plans, strategic
solicitation approaches, and ongoing stewardship initiatives designed to support and surpass annual financial objectives.
Community Engagement
▪ Champion strategic initiatives that advance housing -first objectives, aligning efforts with the broader mission to secure
permanent housing solutions for the unhoused.
Stakeholder Engagement
▪ Foster bridgebuilding engagements with properties, businesses, government bodies, non -profits, and private entities to secure
essential resources, and intervention programs.
▪ Design and execute robust community engagement strategies, cultivating relationships stakeholders to enhance and expand the
external support for organizational services.
Director of Homeless Services
Downtown DC BID, Washington, DC 2020 – 2024
Program Management
▪ Orchestrated targeted housing and outreach initiatives at the Downtown Day Services Center, focusing on adult engagement
and gathering key data on homelessness to shape program development.
▪ Oversaw and optimize daily center operations by leading staff, streamlining service delivery processes, and collaborating with
external providers to bolster support services.
Community Engagement
▪ Championed strategic initiatives that advance housing -first objectives, aligning efforts with the broader mission to secure
permanent housing solutions for the unhoused.
▪ Designed and executed robust community engagement strategies, cultivating relationships with major donors and stakeholders
to enhance and expand the BID’s homeless services portfolio.
Stakeholder Engagement
▪ Lead engagements with businesses, government bodies, non-profits, and private entities to secure essential funding, resources,
and intervention programs.

Major Gifts Officer
The Salvation Army, Washington, DC 2017 – 2020
Fundraising Execution
▪ Cultivated and secured significant financial gifts from existing and new donors by employing tailored outreach strategies and
personalized engagement, resulting in a substantial increase in funding opportunities.
▪ Elevated mid-level donors to the major gift category through strategic relationship -building and targeted communication,
achieving and exceeding annual fundraising goals.
Development Planning
▪ Formulated and executed comprehensive development strategies that included in -depth donor research, cultivation plans,
strategic solicitation approaches, and ongoing stewardship initiatives designed to support and surpass annual financial
objectives.
Strategic Program Enhancement
▪ Strengthened the major gifts program by partnering with the Director of Development to design, implement, and evaluate
innovative fundraising strategies, development plans, and collaboration alignment with departmental goals and drove success in
achieving broader organizational targets.
Assistant Director of Community Engagement
Central Union Mission, Washington, DC 2013 – 2017
Operational Management
▪ Managed daily operations of the Mission Shelter facility, overseeing staffing, maintenance, and service delivery to ensure a
well-functioning and supportive environment.
Planning and Execution
▪ Spearheaded the Donor and Sponsorship program, designing and executing strategies to attract and retain donors and sponsors,
enhancing fundraising outcomes.
▪ Executed the full lifecycle of fundraising programs, including detailed planning, development, implementation, and
administration, aligning with goals set by the Board of Directors.
Relationship Management
▪ Forged and nurtured strong relationships with corporate sponsors, donors, and volunteers through targeted engagement
activities, events, and programs to foster long-term support and philanthropic involvement.
Program Administration
▪ Directed all aspects of program management, including conducting thorough research, developing strategic plans, recruiting and
training staff, implementing program initiatives, and crafting compelling content for the organization's website.
Director, High-Risk Programs
American Diabetes Association, Alexandria, VA 2011 – 2013
Project Leadership
▪ Led comprehensive project management efforts, conducted data analysis, developed strategic plans, managed budgeting
processes, and allocated responsibilities to team members.
▪ Engineered strategic collaborations with organizational and media partners, identified communication requirements, produced
high-impact promotional content, and orchestrated its distribution across print and digital platforms.
▪ Supervised and enhanced media operations, including social media engagement, online content creation, and webcast execution.
Regulatory Compliance
▪ Oversaw cross-functional teams to ensure the execution of risk management initiatives. Maintain ed strong relationships with
stakeholders, including compliance with regulatory bodies, and addressed issues.
Acting Executive Director
BET Foundation (BET Networks), Washington, DC 2007 – 2010
Program Leadership
▪ Administered the comprehensive management and execution of foundation programs ; each initiative aligns with the
organization's strategic vision and advances its mission.
▪ Developed and nurtured collaborative partnerships with Ad Sales and Marketing Teams to identify, cultivate, and secure diverse
revenue streams essential for sustaining and expanding program operations and ensuring long-term financial health.
Sponsorship Management
▪ Enhanced network revenue by crafting and deploying innovative advertising campaigns and sponsorship strategies , identifying
potential corporate partners, and negotiating high-value deals.
Performance Metrics
▪ Led targeted outreach and engagement efforts to increase attendance at the Women’s Health Symposium, growing participation
from 500 to 6,000 attendees.
Senior Grants Specialist
Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration, Washington, DC 2002 - 2004
Strategic Contract Management
• Spearheaded the full lifecycle management of federal contracts and grants, ensuring meticulous adherence to all regulatory
frameworks and contractual obligations from award through closeout.
• Led comprehensive reviews of grant proposals and technical documentation, driving alignment with strategic objectives and
enhancing the success rate of submissions.
Capacity Building Initiatives
• Conceived and delivered monthly compliance seminars and grant writing workshops across multiple states, including Puerto
Rico, significantly boosting the capabilities of grant recipients and non-profit partners.
Legislative Advocacy
• Strategically organized and executed quarterly appropriations discussions and Capitol Hill advocacy efforts for Puerto Rican
grant program managers and non-profit groups, fostering critical legislative support.
High-Value Contract Management
• Directed the multi-year acquisition contract with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, ensuring seamless contract execution and
compliance, while driving value for all stakeholders.
Historic Agricultural Contract:
• Successfully brokered and managed the first USDA acquisition of Puerto Rican coffee and pineapple, securing an unprecedented
$1 billion contract, which catalyzed significant economic growth in Puerto Rico’s agricultural sector.
Director of Research & Development
DC Fire & EMS Department, Washington, DC 2000 – 2002
Leadership & Strategic Oversight
• Directed the Research & Development division with a focus on strategic planning, procurement, grant acquisition, and contract
management, elevating departmental efficiency and effectiveness.
Infrastructure Enhancement
• Oversaw the successful execution of fire station reconstruction and restoration projects, ensuring alignment with safety standards
and budgetary constraints.
Chief of Staff Role
• Led day -to-day operations with a focus on strategic resource allocation, federal and local funding acquisition, personnel
management, and annual financial planning.
Innovative Program Development
• Orchestrated the design and implementation of high -impact community engagement initiatives, including special events and
annual fire education projects, significantly enhancing public safety awareness.
Financial Stewardship
• Developed and managed a comprehensive budget framework, optimizing financial resources to support departmental priorities.
Grant Acquisition Success:
• Secured and expertly managed a $2 million grant from the DC Emergency Management Agency, dramatically enhancing the
department’s emergency response capabilities and infrastructure.
Highway Safety Specialist
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, DC 1997 – 2000
Contracting Officer Technical Representative (COTR)
• Provided expert oversight for national transportation contracts and acquisitions, ensuring compliance with federal regulation s
and the successful execution of technical requirements.
Comprehensive Contract Lifecycle Management
• Managed all phases of the contract lifecycle, from pre -award assessments and negotiations to post -award administration and
termination, ensuring contracts met all performance and compliance standards.
Leadership in Procurement
• Led a team of subcontract specialists in managing complex procurement processes, overseeing contract modifications, and
ensuring optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
Budget & Financial Analysis:
• Conducted rigorous budget analyses and contract evaluations, leading to efficient contract closeouts and ensuring the fiscal
responsibility of all contractual engagements.
Emergency Medical Services Contract Management
• Oversaw critical contracts for national emergency medical services, enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of trauma and
EMS systems across the country.
High-Impact Contract Administration:
• Administered high -value contracts, including a $1M contract with the American Trauma Society and a $1.5M EMT and
Paramedic contract, contributing to significant advancements in national emergency medical response systems.
Early Career
▪ National Program Coordinator - AARP, Washington, DC
▪ Director of Programs & Innovations Consultant - Cultural Tourism DC, Washington, DC
▪ Director of Catering Consultant - B. Smith’s Restaurant Group, Washington, DC
▪ State Planner - Governor Office of Highway Safety, Atlanta, GA
▪ Executive Assistant - Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
▪ Legislative Aide - Office of The Lieutenant Governor, Atlanta, GA
▪ Resource Coordinator - NW Georgia Girl Scout Council, Inc., Atlanta, GA
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration - Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
AmeriCorps Member
Graduate of Cornell Executive Leadership Program
E
xecutive Office of the Mayor – Mayor’s Office of Talent and Appointments
John A. Wilson Building | 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 600 | Washington, DC 20004
Deb
ra Kilpatrick Byrd
M
s. Debra Kilpatrick Byrd possesses over two decades of executive level
expertise in housing resources and impoverished community
development. She currently serves as the Director of Impact and
Development at the Hillcrest Children & Family Center.
Previously, Ms. Kilpatrick Byrd was the Director of Homeless Services
at the Downtown DC BID. She has also served as a Major Gifts Officer
at the Salvation Army and as the Assistant Director of Community
Engagement at the Central Union Mission.
A Ward 5 resident, Ms. Kilpatrick Byrd earned her Bachelor of Business
Administration from Georgia State University.

GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser
Office of the General Counsel to the Mayor
______________________________________________________________________________
The John A. Wilson Building • 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW • Suite 300 • Washington, D.C. 20004 • Office (202) 724-7681
To: Tomas Talamante, Steve Walker
From: Betsy Cavendish
Date: January 13, 2026
Subject: Legal sufficiency review of Resolution s nominating David Schultz, Isaac Harris,
YaVonne Boyd, Lamar Richards, Cesar Toledo , Elijah Moses, Khadijah
Williams, Marla Dean, Debra Kilpatrick Byrd, Patricia Stamper, and Nechama
Masliansky as members of the Commission on Poverty
This is to Certify that this office has reviewed the above -referenced resolution s and
found them to be legally unobjectionable. If you have any questions in this regard, please do not
hesitate to call Erika Satterlee, Deputy General Counsel, Executive Office of the Mayor, at 202-
724-1303, or me at 202-724-7681.
______________________________

Elizabeth A. (Betsy) Cavendish