Lisa-Ruth Karnes joined Cobb Community Foundation in 2025 as Programs Manager, and is now Programs Director, where she oversees the development and implementation of Vital Signs, the Foundation’s grant and scholarship programs, and supports fundholders in reaching their philanthropic goals.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a concentration in culture and social change from Kennesaw State University, along with certificates in grant writing from the University of Georgia and in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from Kennesaw State. Lisa-Ruth’s professional background spans the legal and education sectors, and she began her nonprofit career as an English language instructor for adults at local nonprofits.

In 2019, she joined The Carter Center’s Human Rights Program in Atlanta, supporting international human rights defenders in their work toward peace and equity. She later served at North Fulton Community Charities in Roswell, GA, where she launched a new Workforce Development program in 2022 before moving into the role of Donor Relations Manager. There, she led grant writing efforts, managed the grants program, and built relationships with key stakeholders to expand support for the organization’s mission.

Lisa-Ruth is passionate about working in spaces where she can be a bridge—connecting people of all backgrounds and building stronger communities. Originally from Pennsylvania, she and her husband, Craig, have called the Atlanta area home since 2005 and are the proud parents of a daughter and a son. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new places, discovering delicious foods, playing tennis, dancing, and jumping at the chance to sing karaoke.