The New Hanover Community Endowment announced new hires and promotions Thursday.

Sophie Dagenais, a Wilmington-area resident, is the endowment’s incoming vice president of programs and grants, according to a news release.

"Dagenais brings a wealth of experience in philanthropy, business, government and higher education and a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives, nurturing collaboration and leading large-scale transformation projects that generate long-term, sustainable impact," the release stated.

She previously served as a director at The Annie E. Casey Foundation, a $3.4 billion charitable organization devoted to improving the lives of children and families across the United States.

"In her new role, Dagenais will lead a team of program officers, drive innovation in grant making and support cross-sector collaborations to advance the endowment’s mission and vision and to address pressing community challenges with a focus on equity, inclusion and sustainable growth," the release stated.

Wilmington resident Amber Rogerson (pictured at right) is the endowment’s new communications director. According to the release, Rogerson will collaborate with the chief marketing officer "to amplify the endowment’s programs and engage with the community to drive positive change."

With a background in marketing, creative strategy and graphic design, Rogerson also brings entrepreneurial experience as the owner of Mettle + Moxie Boutique, the release stated.

Another Wilmington resident, Moussa Toure (pictured at left), joined the endowment in December as a network associate, focusing on diligence and financial review of grant applicants and performance.

Toure received his undergraduate degree in finance from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and is completing his studies for a graduate degree in finance from UNCW.

The endowment's promotions announced Thursday are:

• Eileen O’Malley to chief technology officer from her previous role as grants manager
• Crystal Cooper, who began as a part-time contractor, to the controller in a full-time capacity

“Welcoming three outstanding new team members and celebrating these well-deserved promotions is a great way to start 2025,” stated Dan Winslow, president and CEO of the endowment, in the release. “This milestone is about more than just growing our team; it’s about harnessing exceptional talent to deepen our impact and increase our capacity to make a difference in the lives of New Hanover County residents.”