Sebastian Stelios Jannelli

Sebastian Stelios Jannelli is Director of Philanthropic Partnerships for the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University. In this role, he works with donors, faculty, and institutional partners to support research, teaching, and public programs that strengthen democracy by fostering civic engagement and dialogue across difference.

Sebastian brings more than fifteen years of experience advancing initiatives at the intersection of philanthropy, higher education, and democratic practice. Previously, he served as Assistant Dean for External Relations at the University of Delaware’s Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy & Administration, where he oversaw development strategy for the nation’s newest presidential school. He worked closely with university leadership and liaised with partners across the business, entertainment, and government sectors, including the White House, to support initiatives focused on civic engagement and democratic leadership.

During his tenure at the Biden School, Sebastian designed and launched the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Ithaca Initiative, a program that sends students on a journey of discovery in democratic citizenship, convening participants from across the political spectrum to engage in dialogue, reflection, and collaborative problem-solving.

Earlier in his career, Sebastian held leadership roles at Greenpeace USA, directing national membership and engagement programs and serving as editor-in-chief of the organization’s member magazine, Compass. He began his career in public service in the United States Senate as an intern for Senator Joe Biden.

Sebastian earned his Master of Public Administration from the University of Delaware and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from American University. Fluent in Greek, his commitment to civic life is shaped in part by his Hellenic heritage and an enduring interest in the classical traditions of democratic thought.