Denise Parrish

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Denise Youngsteadt-Parrish, known to many as Dinky, has spent more than 30 years helping individuals and families through some of life’s most difficult moments. Her work has focused on nonprofit organizations supporting people affected by interpersonal violence, poverty, and sexual assault.

Denise brings leadership experience from organizations including the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks, Lifeline of Ohio, Columbus Humane, and Columbus Parks and Recreation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from The Ohio State University and a master’s degree in Professional Advancement and Community Leadership from Duquesne University. Her academic interests center on adult learning and the impact of trauma.

Outside of work, Denise is a first-degree black belt in Wae Kune Do Karate, a proud mom, grandmother, and great-aunt. She also spent part of her childhood living in East Africa, an experience that continues to shape her perspective. Denise is a recipient of the NAACP Freedom Fund Award and has been published in the field of multicultural education.