As we head into fall, we see reminders of the seasonal changes all around us. The Kauffman Foundation is going through its own change with the retirement of long-term CEO Wendy Guillies. We are grateful for her service and her leadership. The Foundation is well-positioned for the future because of her dedicated work.
Earlier this month, the Trustees formed a committee charged with selecting a firm to conduct a comprehensive national search for Kauffman’s next CEO. We have not set a specific timeline for the selection process; that will be determined by finding the right candidate.
In addition to the CEO search, all of us working at the Foundation will continue to honor Mr. Kauffman’s commitment to, and legacy in, Kansas City. We’ll build on the past few years of work focused on providing access to opportunities that help people achieve financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity.
We will continue to use all the tools at the Foundation’s disposal in Kansas City, regionally, and nationally – its grantmaking, research, programs, and initiatives – to remain steadfast in our commitment to our overall mission:
We seek to prepare people for success in their jobs and careers, so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve economic stability, mobility, and prosperity.
Our work is grounded in the principles of racial equity, diversity, and inclusion and is consistent with the aspirations of our founder, Ewing Marion Kauffman.
The Trustees, senior leadership team, and associates look forward to continuing to listen, learn, and work with all of you to serve our communities as we move forward on this journey.
In this interim period, Trustee Susan Chambers will step in as CEO and ensure that all the internal functions of the Foundation continue to run smoothly.
Any questions about the search or Foundation priorities can be directed to Larry Jacob, vice president of Public Affairs.