Sonia Nussbaum

The Phīla Team

Grants Associate

Sonia supports Phīla’s foundation management and grantmaking work by providing thoughtful administrative and project support that helps ensure grants are processed accurately, on time, and in alignment with each client’s values. Working closely with the Grants Manager and broader FMS team, this role assists with grant tracking, documentation, scheduling, and internal coordination, helping translate board decisions into well-organized, compliant grant activity while contributing to a collaborative, detail-oriented team environment.

Bio

As a Grants Associate, Sonia Nussbaum supports the team by stewarding client relationships and advancing intentional, values-aligned strategies. A true “people person” Sonia is especially attuned to what motivates givers and is energized by identifying new opportunities that deepen both purpose and impact.

She is a member of Chicago Foundation for Women Young Women’s Giving Council, Programs Cochair of PEAK Grantmaking Midwest, and a 2025 Giving Project participant. Sonia has BSPA in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from the School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University and a certificate in Fund Development.

Sonia is deeply committed to the belief that all people are entitled to self-actualization, which is best achieved collectively in a multicultural society that prioritizes belonging and acceptance. She is grateful to all of the people and places that have shaped her – from the small mountain towns of Vermont to the busy city blocks of Chicago.