Ann T. Lisi, President & CEO of Greater Worcester Community Foundation, will be retiring on June 30, 2019, after 30 years with the foundation. A search committee has been formed to identify the next CEO.

The transition was announced to the membership in October by Gerald M. Gates, Chair of the Board, who wrote, “Ann has expanded the Foundation's leadership role on behalf of nonprofits, enhanced donor engagement, and pioneered initiatives that will have a lasting impact on our community. Thanks to Ann's guidance, the Foundation is in a strong position on all major fronts - we're ready to face the transition ahead.”

Lisi originally joined the organization in 1989 as program officer and was appointed executive director in 1992. Under her leadership, the Foundation has grown from $24 million to over $155 million with more than 550 named funds that award $7-8 million annually to nonprofits. Signature efforts under her leadership have been programs in nonprofit management; diversity and leadership development; arts and creativity; environmental stewardship; children, youth, and families; and civic engagement.

“I love this work,” Lisi said. “It has been my greatest honor to serve the community through the unique vantage point of GWCF. The people who are engaged in community building - nonprofit leaders, community activists, donors from all walks of life, and colleagues across the country - bring an astonishing array of talent. Their commitment and creative spirit are what holds our communities together, no matter what stresses we encounter.”

The search is being handled by Rebecca Swartz of Isaacson Miller. Candidate outreach is expected to commence in February. For more information, visit www.greaterworcester.org.

January 9, 2019