News & Announcements

CEO Transition Update

October 25, 2019
CEO Transition Update

The Community Foundation is in a time of transition as we bid farewell to longtime President and CEO Norma Schuiteman. We want to let you know what to expect in the months ahead as we search for our new executive. We are confident that we have a smooth path forward, and we anticipate concluding our selection process by the end of this year.

Community Foundation board member John Clees is leading the search committee. He is a longtime community leader, attorney and CPA, and an expert in estate planning. The committee has hired Hagel Executive Search, a firm that specializes in nonprofit leadership.

Community Foundation staff will manage the day-to-day operations during this period, with the support of Board Chair, Mary Williams. Williams will act as designee for key organization-level issues and decisions. The following staff assignments will continue:

Kathy Brunson, Director of Administrative Services, handles administration and operations.

Valerie Piper, Director of Finance, manages finances and scholarships.

Melissa Rosscup, Programs and Communications Assistant, supports grants and Give Local activities.

Mindie Reule, Philanthropic Services and Programs Director, is the lead for gifts, funds, grants, and public relations.

We are confident that this team is up to the challenge of sustaining the Community Foundation’s growth and momentum for the next few months, and that when a new Executive is hired, they will walk into a stable, thriving organization. As always, please contact the Community Foundation at 360-705-3340 if you have questions.

“Philanthropy is an important piece of helping to sustain a thriving, healthy community... the dividends are a healthier, vibrant community.”

- Give Local Donor

“I hope that my daughter and her cousins (and their offspring) will continue to advise the fund for generations to come, and that through this process they too will understand what generosity of spirit means for a healthy community.”

- Todd, DAF Donor

"I know I can pick up the phone and call the Community Foundation and they'll take our call... I've been incredibly impressed with the generosity and sense of togetherness I've encountered in the South Sound. This community is strong because of that and only because of that."

- Brian, Local Nonprofit Leader