Celebrating Two Outstanding Women Behind the Scenes at RUF: Dana Caraivan & Gabriela Tătar Cordoș

At Romanian United Foundation (RUF), we’re proud to be powered by dedicated individuals whose passion, talent, and heart shape our mission every day. Today, we shine the spotlight on two exceptional women who bring people together through strategy, compassion, and purpose: Dana Caraivan and Gabriela Tătar Cordoș.

Dana Caraivan: Strategic Vision for Stronger Communities

At Romanian United Fund (RUF), we’re powered by passionate individuals who bring vision and purpose to everything we do. One of them is Dana Caraivan, a strategic communicator with a deep commitment to building strong, connected communities.

Dana brings expertise in managing multicultural projects, shaping impactful communications, and fostering bilateral partnerships, especially between Romania and Poland. Her work bridges cultures and amplifies Romanian voices abroad.

“I found in RUF a community of Romanians and friends of our country, so enthusiastic and dedicated to improving the world around them. Supporting Via Transilvanica, fundraising for social causes, or helping build the Global Romania Community are just a few of the initiatives I connect with.”

Dana’s clarity and insight help ensure RUF’s message resonates across generations and borders. We're proud to have her as part of our story.

Gabriela Tătar Cordoș: Nurturing Purposeful Relationships

Meet Gabriela, our warm and passionate Angel Liaison at RUF! A core team member since 2024, Gabriela plays a pivotal role in building and maintaining meaningful relationships with our Founding Angels, the supporters who help RUF not only survive but truly thrive.

With a background in social work (Master’s from Washington University in St. Louis) and over two decades of life in the U.S., Gabriela brings both professional insight and a heartfelt dedication to community building. In addition to her advocacy and foundation work, she is also a professional in real estate and a proud mother of two.

Gabriela’s belief is simple but powerful: “To build a strong Romanian community, we need both connection and support. I have the time and the willingness to be part of this effort.” Her empathy, gratitude, and ability to make everyone feel seen and valued make her an irreplaceable part of our mission.

Together, Dana and Gabriela embody the spirit of RUF: thoughtful strategy, deep community ties, and a relentless drive to elevate the Romanian diaspora. We are incredibly lucky and grateful to have them both on this journey. 💙💛❤️