USA Fencing Selects Meghan DeFord as Director of Development, Executive Director of the U.S. Fencing Foundation

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Meghan DeFord, a dynamic leader and seasoned fundraiser with more than 18 years of experience helping organizations expand their impact, has been named USA Fencing’s new director of development and executive director of the U.S. Fencing Foundation.

DeFord brings a proven track record in driving philanthropic success across the nonprofit and educational sectors. As she takes the helm of the U.S. Fencing Foundation — the fundraising arm of USA Fencing — she will draw on her expertise in building lasting relationships, engaging donors, and leading high-impact campaigns.

Her previous roles include director of development at Saint Andrew’s School in Florida, philanthropic engagement officer at the Anti-Defamation League, and assistant vice president at Florida Atlantic University.

“We undertook an extensive nationwide search for the right candidate to lead the U.S. Fencing Foundation’s fundraising efforts,” says Phil Andrews, USA Fencing CEO. “Meghan’s passion for sport, combined with her ability to cultivate meaningful relationships, stood out immediately in a pool of top-quality candidates. Her experience and energy align perfectly with our goals of increasing support for athletes and growing the sport of fencing.”

DeFord’s focus will be on engaging donors and broadening fencing's reach across communities. As a lifelong athlete, she understands firsthand the power of sport to inspire and unite.

Growing up, DeFord played soccer, basketball, softball, and rugby. Today, she stays active as a runner and yoga enthusiast. Her personal connection to sports makes her well equipped to speak to current and prospective donors with genuine passion. Outside of work, she enjoys coaching youth soccer, reading, and spending time with her two children and two mischievous cats.

“It’s an honor to join USA Fencing at such an exciting and critical juncture for the sport,” DeFord says. “I am eager to build strong relationships with athletes, members, and stakeholders across the fencing community to provide excellence in our support of USA Fencing athletes, as well as continue the growth and access to the sport.”

Anyone interested in supporting USA Fencing’s mission and helping grow fencing across the United States is encouraged to contact DeFord via email or look for her at upcoming USA Fencing tournaments and events.