Natalie Fotias

Natalie Fotias, director of communications, joined The Skillman Foundation in 2015. Natalie is responsible for the communication strategy and brand management of the Foundation and supports several of its community initiatives including Launch Michigan, the Coalition for the Future of Detroit Schoolchildren, My Brother’s Keeper Detroit Innovation Challenge, Detroit Children’s Fund, Teach 313, and Every School Day Counts Detroit.

Prior to joining the Foundation, Natalie worked in communications and fundraising in the charitable sector for Gleaners Community Food Bank and Muscular Dystrophy Association. She led lululemon athletica’s prebranding efforts in Michigan, resulting in the highest store opening sales day in the U.S. and second highest globally, surpassed only by the company’s flagship store. She received her master’s degree in communications from Wayne State University and bachelor’s degree in film production from Columbia College.

Natalie is passionate about equitable growth and opportunity in Detroit, her hometown. She is married to Sam Fotias and has a son named Costa. They enjoy Detroit’s many music and cultural festivals.