Molly Swales

Molly Swales helps translate clients’ philanthropic goals into meaningful action. She works closely with both prospective grantee organizations and those with established relationships, ensuring that giving aligns with clients’ values and priorities. Molly conducts thorough due diligence for every potential grantee, verifying their status as recognized charitable entities, confirming good standing with the IRS, and collecting all required documentation. Beyond initial grantmaking, she evaluates proposals, facilitates grant agreements, and manages ongoing follow-up, tracking grant progress, and obtaining reports on fund usage or outcomes. Her careful, detail-oriented approach ensures that each philanthropic initiative is executed efficiently, responsibly, and in alignment with client objectives.

Before joining Sterling, Molly built a foundation in customer service, team leadership, and operational management through roles in hospitality and outdoor recreation. Her ability to balance operational demands with supportive leadership allowed her to maintain consistently high standards of service and guest satisfaction.

Molly earned bachelors’ degrees in both economics and foreign affairs from the University of Virginia. She is also an active volunteer with the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, where her leadership in trail maintenance and conservation enables her to steward a section of the Appalachian Trail while giving back to the community.