This event is intended for executive leaders (CEOs, Presidents, Executive Directors) of mid- and large-sized community foundations who have been in their role for four years or less.
With more than 360 community foundations in its membership, the Council on Foundations recognizes the vital role that their leaders play in in their communities to collaborate across sectors, bridge differences, and fund important initiatives. Foundation executives are key levers of change in this work: uniquely positioned to advance change both internally within an organization and externally through the organization’s strategy and impact.
The Council is convening this inaugural retreat to equip new foundation executives with the skills and relationships needed to be successful in their early years. Hosted by Jay Williams and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving in Connecticut, it will take place from noon on August 23 and to 1:00 pm ET on August 24, 2023. Over the two consecutive half-day sessions, attendees will delve into the practical and topical issues facing new community foundation executives.
The agenda provides space to garner wisdom and lessons from other leaders, set goals and participate in peer coaching, share proven tips and resources, and explore the role of community foundation leaders in connecting and collaborating across difference. The sessions will address common challenges and opportunities around finding one’s feet as a new leader, bringing participants in fellowship with those at differently sized and situated community foundations.
Retreat objectives:
- Explore core skills, attributes and change management challenges for early-tenure foundation executives;
- Facilitate exchange of lessons from seasoned philanthropic leaders and local nonprofit leaders;
- Support peer coaching on top-of-mind leadership challenges;
- Address needs for specific trajectories leading to the foundation executive role (outside sector, inside sector, internal promotion);
- Exchange range of tips/resources for new foundation executives;
- Examine role of community foundation executives in bridging across differences and building common ground.
