WHO WE ARE
The Think Forward Foundation is a forward-thinking nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals through innovative education and cutting-edge technology. We believe in taking unique initiatives that challenge the status quo and promote forward-thinking solutions. Our mission is to make a meaningful impact on people's lives by providing access to transformative educational resources and technology.
WHAT WE DO
Empowering Through Innovation
At the Think Forward Foundation, we are committed to providing a wide range of services aimed at empowering individuals to reach their full potential. Our programs incorporate innovative educational approaches and cutting-edge technology to create unique learning experiences. We are dedicated to making a difference by offering initiatives that inspire and foster forward-thinking mindsets.
Our Board of Directors
Ellen M. Gonser
Founder and President
Ellen's role as a founding board member of the Think Forward Foundation showcases her commitment to creating positive change in the world. She was the first to earn a BA in Advertising at Central Washington University where she took the initiative to successfully petition for the program. This kind of advocacy not only highlights her determination but also demonstrates her commitment to the field of advertising. Her extensive background in graphic design for over 30 years indicates a strong creative ability, which can be valuable in promoting the Foundation's mission visually and effectively.
Her passion for travel enriches her perspective, allowing her to understand diverse cultures and challenges globally. This first-hand experience informs her approach to environmental issues and community engagement, providing a holistic view of how individuals and organizations can impact the world positively.
Through the Foundation, Ellen aims to inspire others to recognize the beauty of the world and work collaboratively towards creating solutions and improving quality of life. If you're looking to support or engage with the Think Forward Foundation, consider exploring volunteer opportunities or initiatives that align with Ellen's vision of a better world.
Tom Gonser
Founder
Tom Gonser is an entrepreneur and venture investor living in the Pacific Northwest. Tom’s passion is helping early-stage technology companies achieve breakout performance and investing in new companies that will fundamentally impact the future.
He is active with the Think Forward Foundation, which co-founded with his wife, Ellen, in 2019. The Think Forward foundation is focused on finding researchers and charitable groups that are solving hard problems with novel approaches, ultimately inventing new methods for improving our world. Tom’s charitable focus is on planetary environmental change with a focus on oceans, as well as health & medical research with a focus on cancer and heart disease. Tom is a strong supporter of the University of Washington through programs which contribute to the school’s overall success, and ability to impact others as he was impacted in his life.
Prior to DocuSign, Tom worked with Apple Computer, AT&T, Boeing, and many other companies. Tom earned a BA in Economics with an emphasis in Business Systems Analysis and Design from the University of Washington. Tom believes the best way to predict the future is to invent it.
Secretary
Dave Parker
Dave is the CEO of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO). A global non-profit that supports >18,000 entrepreneurs in 80 countries. Parker is a 5X founder and former VC, he’s an expert in scaling startups for growth and exit. He has been part of more than 20 transactions as founder, operator, board member, and advisor across various sectors and stages. He is also a published author of "Trajectory: Startup - Ideation to Product/Market Fit" a book that guides early-stage founders on validating and refining their startup ideas.
He’s been on the Board of Directors for >20 companies and non-profits. Dave is passionate about supporting the startup ecosystem and empowering underrepresented founders worldwide.
Board Member
Nancy Reyda
Nancy spent her career leading transformative change and she is honored to bring that experience to the Think Forward Foundation’s Advisory Board. The heart of Think Forward’s Mission is to empower individuals to attack complex challenges with innovative and daring strategies, facilitating breakthroughs that might not occur through conventional methods. Nancy brought this spirit of innovation to her role as COO of operations and technology at global banks, to leading strategic change at GAP Inc during its turnaround, and to transforming Chevron’s gasoline retailing business model as CEO of RMX.
Educated as a Chemical Engineer, Nancy is passionate about delivering an experiential STEM journey to the students at Clarkson University where she serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees. Nancy is also dedicated to supporting groundbreaking cancer research and serves on the American Association for Cancer Research Foundation Board.
Board Member
Jessica Bird
Jessica Bird is a strategic communications consultant whose career has centered on making complex ideas more accessible. Throughout her career, she has partnered with various organizations ranging from Microsoft to the University of Washington, to help leaders communicate emerging technologies and organizational priorities in ways that create understanding and build trust. She is especially drawn to work that removes barriers and elevates diverse perspectives.
Jessica brings this passion to the Think Forward Foundation Advisory Board, where she is excited to support the use of technology to expand educational opportunities and create more equitable access to learning. She hopes to help the Foundation amplify its mission and connect more learners with more opportunities.
Outside of her professional work, Jessica enjoys mentoring and exploring the world through food, wine, and travel. Before focusing on communications, she worked as a professional sommelier, an experience that surprisingly reinforced her belief that expertise is built through curiosity and opportunity, rather than exclusivity.