Whitney Kollar

Whitney partners with families to turn climate ambition into high-impact action. She helps philanthropists navigate a complex landscape—providing clear strategy, trusted expertise, and curated opportunities to maximize their impact, whether they are entering the field or scaling significant existing portfolios. With more than 20 years of experience, Whitney has advised individuals and foundations on tackling some of the world’s most urgent environmental challenges. 

Prior to Climate Lead, she spent 14 years at Environmental Defense Fund, where she built and mobilized donor communities to advance the organization’s highest-impact priorities. Earlier in her career, Whitney worked as a lobbyist and campaign strategist in state and federal races—experience that gives her a distinctive understanding of the policy levers and political dynamics required to drive durable, system-level change. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Georgia, as well as a Certificate of Environmental Ethics. 

Based in Colorado, Whitney is an avid outdoor enthusiast and a mother of two boys who inspire her every day to create a cleaner, more equitable world for future generations.