About Kayleigh

Kayleigh Marshall is a nonprofit finance and operations leader who takes a holistic approach to organizational strategy, integrating people, finance, and operations as core pillars of sustainable infrastructure. Their work is grounded in a deep commitment to social change and shaped by a track record of strategic leadership, rigorous analysis, and collaborative partnership.

Kayleigh is the founder of Emerald Senses, where they bring deep expertise in nonprofit financial strategy and long‑term planning. Through their work, Kayleigh supports organizations as they navigate periods of transition and uncertainty—including leadership changes, environmental and political crises, and evolving technological landscapes. In this work, they have consistently identified the areas where organizations most often struggle: short‑term financial sustainability, cash‑flow management, and the clarity needed to make confident decisions. Emerald Senses was created to meet this need, helping organizations strengthen these foundations and prepare for sustainable growth.

Prior to founding Emerald Senses, Kayleigh served as a senior finance and operations leader at multiple nonprofit organizations in New York City and held earlier finance and operations roles in the San Francisco Bay Area. Across organizations, Kayleigh is known for strengthening financial systems, improving cash‑flow management, and advancing both short‑ and long‑term financial sustainability. A central focus of their work is building financial literacy among department and program leaders, ensuring that budgeting and forecasting are accessible, actionable tools that support mission‑driven decision‑making.

Kayleigh holds a BA in Law & Society from American University, with a focus on Law and Social Justice and accounting studies, and an MPA from the University of San Francisco, specializing in nonprofit administration. Their graduate capstone—published on communication access for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in prison—reflects a long‑standing commitment to equity and access. Kayleigh also completed executive education through Columbia University’s Developing Leaders Program.



Kayleigh’s commitment to volunteerism was sparked through their work with HEARD, a national all‑volunteer nonprofit advocating for deaf, hard of hearing, and disabled individuals who are incarcerated. They continue to serve on nonprofit boards, with a particular focus on American Sign Language access, nonprofit compliance, and building strong, sustainable financial infrastructure.