As chair of the search committee for the next leader of the Manatee Community Foundation, I am pleased to share an update with you on this very important process.

The Foundation is working with Freeman Philanthropic Services, Inc., a well-regarded executive recruitment and consulting firm specializing in the not-for-profit sector, to facilitate a thoughtful and comprehensive search. To date, Freeman has strategically evaluated over 300 potential candidates, and we are pleased that interest in the position has been so high.

In the coming weeks, the search committee will be evaluating and interviewing an exciting final group of candidates, with the aim of choosing MCF’s next Executive Director this summer.

In the meanwhile, Jennifer Abbott has been doing stellar work as Interim Executive Director, along with the strong team of Alicia Chalmers and Simone Peterson, who have stepped up in their roles as well. 

Because of our highly experienced and professional staff, your Community Foundation has been thriving during the process. We are grateful to this team for giving our board the time necessary to conduct a thorough search.

As we near the end of this important process, we look forward to the next chapter in the life of MCF. A chapter filled with great excitement and anticipation.

Buzz Turner, 

MCF Board of Directors

Search Committee Chair