As Chief Advancement Officer at Canopy Children’s Solutions (Canopy), Heidi Noel leads the organization’s statewide efforts in legislative affairs, strategic initiatives, development, marketing, communications, and public relations. A strategic visionary, she has played a pivotal role in Canopy’s exponential growth, strengthening transformational partnerships, and driving key initiatives that extend Canopy’s impact to more than 16,000 children and families each year.
Since joining Canopy, her leadership has reshaped the Advancement division. Under her direction, philanthropic giving has grown, tax credit utilization has expanded significantly, and Canopy’s portfolio of signature events increased from two annually to eight—including the creation of the inaugural Canopy Butterfly Ball. Her team has grown to include grants, data and analytics, marketing, communications, public relations, and partner engagement, all working together to advance a unified mission and brand. She has also championed strategic legislative initiatives, contributing to meaningful wins for children’s mental and behavioral health across Mississippi.
Before stepping into her executive role, Heidi served as Senior Director of Advancement and Director of Development for Canopy, where she established a foundation of strong donor relationships, sustainable growth strategies, and community-driven partnerships that continue to propel the organization forward.
Her commitment to service extends well beyond Canopy. She is a past President of the Junior League of Jackson, one of the largest chapters in the Association of Junior Leagues International and served as Vice President of Membership and Vice President of Fund Development. She remains an engaged leader within the St. Andrew’s Episcopal School community.
Prior to her nonprofit tenure, Heidi built a successful career rooted in relationship-driven sales and strategy. Her background includes territory leadership in the gift and paper industry, as well as strategic work for FedEx. Earlier in her career, she served in the United States Navy as a Personnel Specialist, an experience that shaped her commitment to teamwork, service, and operational excellence.
She began her collegiate career at the University of Mississippi, she later completed her Bachelor of Science in Education through Southern Illinois University, specializing in Workforce Education and Development.
Heidi calls Ridgeland, Mississippi home, where she lives with her family. She continues to be a strong advocate for community impact, mission advancement, and transformational partnerships that help Mississippi children and families thrive.
