Community Foundation president Kate Nielsen has announced her plans to retire by year-end 2013.  Our Board of Directors will begin the search process for her successor, with Nielsen remaining as president through the transition.

Sheila Blair, Kate Nielsen and Mimi Tynes at a 50th anniversary gathering

“We have been fortunate to have a leader with Kate’s insight, inspiration and community knowledge,” said Board Chair Robert Holmes Jr., noting that Kate is only the fourth president since the start of the Community Foundation in 1959. Peggy Spain McDonald was the first, followed by Sheila Blair and Mimi Tynes.

Peggy Spain McDonald

Kate joined the Community Foundation in 1995 as the first development officer, when assets were $38 million, and became president in 2000.

“With record assets of $169 million reported at year-end 2012 as well as our largest permanent bequest of $9 million, the Community Foundation is poised for continued success in all aspects of our work, from the Health Action Partnership to a  new collaboration to boost summer learning,” Holmes added.

“Kate has built on a strong foundation and put an effective team in place to serve our donors, our nonprofit partners and our community. We wish her the best as she plans the next chapter in her life.”

Stay tuned for more information after plans for the job search are finalized. And keep in touch as we continue working together to drive positive change across our community.