Clara Cushing

Clara Cushing develops Ignited’s grant writing strategy and manages relationships with company mentors. With a master’s degree in rhetoric and professional writing, she supports Ignited’s work with her writing expertise, compelling storytelling, and passion for education and nonprofits.

Prior to joining Ignited, Clara crafted narratives for grants and fundraising letters for the Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation in San Diego. She has held several editorial and content development positions on the West and East Coasts for nonprofit organizations including the Phi Beta Kappa Society, The American Scholar, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Her interest in supporting students of diverse backgrounds stems from her years as a university writing center tutor and as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in the Czech Republic. A lifelong learner, Clara loves to experience the world through travel, hiking, great food, and literature.