News
May 16th, 2025
Bridging Campus and Community: Community Data Analysts Strengthen Philanthropic Impact
Bridging Campus and Community: Community Data Analysts Strengthen Philanthropic Impact
Community collaborations thrive when academic insight meets civic experience — and this year, our Community Data Analysts (CDAs) exemplified the power of that partnership.
Working under the guidance of Amy LeViere, Chief Philanthropic Services & Systems Officer, CDAs played a key role in advancing the Foundation’s data-driven goals. Their work spanned research projects, data integration, and analysis to support fund development and measure community impact — all aligned with sector best practices and the Foundation’s strategic plan.
These student analysts brought fresh perspective, curiosity, and technical expertise to the heart of our operations, helping turn complex data into meaningful strategies for growth.
Curious to learn more?
Read about our Community Data Analysts and their internship experiences with the Community Foundation — and discover how they’re helping shape the future of community philanthropy.
Gabriella Prantl: Working as a Community Data Analyst at the Community Foundation of Tompkins County over the past two years has been such a rewarding experience. During my first year, I really focused on building up my data analysis skills, learning how to organize and present information in ways that help guide the Foundation’s decisions. This past year, I got to spend more time out in the community, talking with grantees and fund advisors to understand what really matters to them. Those conversations gave me a deeper appreciation for the role the Foundation plays in making sure support goes where it’s needed most, and keeping fund advisors connected to what’s happening on the ground.
Now, as I graduate with a double major in Economics and Psychology, I’m excited to take what I’ve learned into the next chapter. It’s a unique mix of fields, and it’s helped me see both the big picture and the human side of the work we do. I’m heading into a master’s program in psychology, and I’m especially looking forward to using the people skills I’ve developed this year, listening, connecting, communicating, in my future career. The Foundation has really helped shape the way I think about community and impact, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it.
Ying Lin Zhao: Working as a Community Data Analyst at the foundation has been an eye-opening and deeply rewarding experience. Throughout the year, I had the opportunity to engage with a variety of grantees and donor advisors to develop impactful graphics and narratives that highlight the power of collaboration and trust-based giving in uplifting our community. In addition, we initiated a project aimed at understanding the broader needs of the Tompkins County community, extending our focus beyond the city of Ithaca. This semester, I worked with Amy to design dynamic dashboard tools intended to significantly reduce reporting time and enhance the overall efficiency of our data reporting processes. This experience has not only strengthened my technical and communication skills but also deepened my appreciation for the role of data in driving meaningful community change.
Community Foundation: Thank you Community Data Analysts (CDAs) Cornell Interns! Through this work, Gabriella and Ying not only strengthened their own technical and communication skills, but also demonstrated how data can be a force for community-centered change.
They leave behind a lasting legacy of insight, innovation, and integrity. We are so grateful for their time with us, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to lead with heart and purpose in the years ahead.
Thank you, Gabriella and Ying — your work has truly made a difference.
Select Projects:
More than 80% of Community Foundation grants are made within our Tompkins Region supporting our local mission-driven sector and providing critical funding building more equitable communities. Click for report: Grants Analysis Regional Impact and Influence
Community Foundation of Tompkins County participated in a national study by DAF Research Collaborative. Click for report: 2024 National Study on Donor Advised Funds
Annual Fund Advisors Briefing was held on May 8, 2025. Click for slide deck: 2025 Annual Fund Advisors Briefing Slides