R. Scott LaMorte
R. Scott LaMorte (They/Them) is a seasoned digital strategist and website developer with over two decades of experience dedicated to empowering non-profit organizations and social change initiatives. Based in Oakland, California, Scott has built a career around providing innovative digital communication strategies, website development, and project management solutions tailored to the unique needs of mission-driven organizations. Their work focuses on equipping non-profits with the tools and training necessary to amplify their impact, ensuring they can effectively navigate the digital landscape to achieve their goals.
Prior to founding Campaign Upgrade, Scott held key roles in various organizations, including as Coordinator for the Glocal Cooperative, where they managed projects and developed open-source software for movement builders. They also served as Information Technology Manager and Volunteer Administrator for the Left Forum, where they oversaw the organization’s digital infrastructure and volunteer coordination for North America’s largest annual conference of leftist activists and academics. Earlier in their career, Scott spent over a decade as Co-Director, IT Coordinator, and GIS Coordinator at Trees Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to environmental conservation in California’s North Coast. Their work there included managing GIS data, coordinating volunteer efforts, and providing IT support and training.
Scott’s contributions to the field have been widely recognized by colleagues and collaborators, who praise their technical expertise, creativity, and collaborative spirit. Described as a passionate and patient problem-solver, Scott is known for their ability to translate complex technical concepts into accessible solutions. Their commitment to social change, combined with their technical acumen and community-minded approach, makes them a valuable asset to any project or organization striving to make a difference in the world.
In 2013, Scott founded Campaign Upgrade, a consultancy that supports non-profits and social good organizations by enhancing their digital presence and operational efficiency. Through this venture, they have worked with a diverse array of clients, including Truthout.org, DarkSky International, The Real News, and the Rutgers AAUP-AFT Union, among others. Scott’s expertise spans website development, database management, and strategic communication, helping organizations streamline their operations and expand their reach. Their ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and provide creative, actionable solutions has earned them a reputation as a trusted partner in the non-profit sector.
Takahiro Noguchi
Takahiro Noguchi is a highly skilled web developer and communications consultant with over 14 years of experience specializing in front-end development and non-profit communications. Based in Oakland, California, Takahiro has dedicated his career to creating user-friendly, efficient, and responsive websites for social businesses and non-profits. Proficient in widely used Content Management Systems like WordPress and Drupal, they leverage modern tools such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Vue, and PHP, alongside frameworks like Bootstrap and Tailwind CSS. Their expertise extends to managing servers, testing, and deployments using tools like Git, Docker, and Webpack, ensuring seamless digital experiences for clients and end-users alike.
With a career spanning diverse sectors—from museums and cultural heritage conservation to media and social practice arts—Takahiro’s work is driven by a deeper question: “How do we connect with and relate to others?” This philosophy underpins their approach to technology, emphasizing human-centered design and effective communication. Recent and current clients include the Haas Institute for a Fair and Inclusive Society at UC Berkeley, Truthout, Fistula Foundation, and CoFED, among others. Takahiro’s ability to blend technical expertise with a focus on community impact has made them a trusted partner for organizations striving to amplify their missions through digital innovation.
In addition to their freelance work, Takahiro has held significant roles such as Creative Technology Director at The Oakland Institute, where they oversaw digital media strategy, SEO, and content development to amplify the organization’s policy work. They also served as Lead Web Developer for Artsy Geek, a freelance role that further honed their skills in web development and client collaboration. Earlier in their career, Takahiro managed communications and digital strategies for organizations like Wholly H2O and the Cultural Resource Conservation Initiative, where they produced documentaries, developed websites, and led community-focused projects, including a UNESCO-mandated study at the Ellora Caves World Heritage Site in India.
Takahiro’s academic background includes an MFA in Community/Public Art & Media from Carnegie Mellon University and a Fulbright Fellowship in India, where they researched contemporary art and culture. Their commitment to social and environmental causes is evident in their volunteer work, including co-founding A PLACE for Sustainable Living and managing web communications for Buddha’s Smile School, a non-profit serving underprivileged children in India. Colleagues and clients praise Takahiro for their technical mastery, creativity, and ability to anticipate project needs, making them an invaluable asset to any team or initiative focused on creating meaningful connections through technology.