Illuminate Marketing & Consulting, LLC is a non-profit fundraising and event marketing company founded by Dena Cruden. Highland-Illuminate is a joint venture created to provide premier fundraising, brand building, and event marketing services to clients in the political and non-profit sectors. 

Dena's extensive experience in strategic planning, financial management, and coalition building has been sought after by numerous non-profits across the country. In 2019, the California Women's Leadership Association recognized Dena as a "Non-Profit Pioneer" for her leadership of One San Diego, the non-profit organization started by Former San Diego Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer and First Lady Katherine Stuart Faulconer.

Dena received her B.A. in Communications with a focus on Public Relations from North Carolina State University. Before launching her own company, she spent 15 years applying her marketing and communications skills for established international brands at Nestlé Food Company, as well as new brands launching in Switzerland and San Diego.

Dena lives in San Diego with her husband Rob and their three children.

Email: dena@highland-illuminate.com