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    Tag: community development

    Rachael Glashan Rupisan: Empowering Communities, Advancing Equity and Inspiring Change.

    I am passionate about gender justice, nonprofit leadership, and strategic impact. With 17 years of experience in fundraising, corporate partnerships, and board development, I am dedicated to fostering inclusivity and driving meaningful change in communities. My journey has been defined by building sustainable organizations, advocating for equity, and empowering the next generation of leaders.

    Jeff Hornstein: Driving Inclusive Growth, Fostering Collaboration and Advancing Equity Through vision, Leadership and Action.

    I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. From leading inclusive growth initiatives to championing racial equity and fostering civic innovation, my work is guided by transparency, mission alignment, and a commitment to creating sustainable impact.

    John Kollm: Visionary Retail & Real Estate Executive Driving Growth, Expansion, and Operational Excellence

    John Kollm is a seasoned executive leader with over 23 years of experience in retail, real estate, and operations, including 11 years at the corporate executive level. Specializing in acquisitions, site selection, pipeline management, and business scalability, he has successfully led large-scale expansion strategies and operational improvements for multi-unit retail brands. Currently serving as senior director of real estate & business development at Independent Pet Partners, John has played a key role in streamlining market analysis, lease negotiations, and store development, optimizing portfolio performance. His leadership extends to Rally House, Batteries Plus Bulbs, and Dick’s Sporting Goods, where he drove business growth, enhanced customer experience, and improved profitability. A dedicated community leader, John serves on the Woodbury, Minnesota Planning Commission and is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). Passionate about collaboration and strategic growth, he is seeking board opportunities where he can leverage his expertise to help businesses scale and succeed.

    Sandra B. Henriquez: Accomplished Executive in Housing, Real Estate, and Public Service

    Character: Sandra B. Henriquez is a principled and integrity-driven leader dedicated to improving housing equity and public service through ethical decision-making and a commitment to social impact. Knowledge: With 50 years of experience in housing, real estate, and public administration, she possesses deep expertise in policy development, asset management, operations, and strategic planning. Strategic: She has successfully led large organizations through transformation by implementing innovative solutions, optimizing operational efficiency, and driving long-term growth in affordable housing and community development. Communication: A skilled communicator and active listener, she effectively engages with stakeholders, board members, and policymakers, ensuring clarity, collaboration, and impactful decision-making.

    Gary D. Ivory: Transformational Nonprofit Leader & Board Executive

    Gary D. Ivory is a transformational nonprofit leader with over 30 years of experience driving strategic growth, board governance, and program development in the social services sector. As president and CEO of Youth Advocate Programs (YAP), Inc., he oversees a $110 million organization operating in 35 states and internationally, dedicated to providing alternatives to incarceration and reducing neighborhood violence. A visionary strategist, Gary has led national and global expansions, secured multi-million-dollar funding, and implemented innovative programs that disrupt systemic inequities. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, he has been quoted in How Children Succeed and Activating the Common Good and frequently addresses topics on violence prevention, social justice, and nonprofit leadership. With a passion for service and a commitment to lifelong learning, Gary continues to shape policies and programs that create lasting, positive change.

    Jon Kuhlow: Dedicated Leader in Manufacturing and Public Service; Committed to Building Stronger Communities and Smarter Operations.

    I'm excited to share my professional journey, highlighting my experience in manufacturing, supply chain management, and government leadership. With over 35 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to optimizing operations, driving infrastructure improvements, and fostering strong communities. I welcome new opportunities to collaborate, innovate, and create meaningful impact. Here is my biography.

    Michael Szajewski: Experienced Leader in Governance, Indigenous Relations, and IT Strategy

    With over 40 years of professional experience, Michael Szajewski is a seasoned executive renowned for his expertise in governance, Indigenous relations, and IT strategy. As Managing Partner at Indigenous Link, Michael leads transformative initiatives that connect Indigenous communities with meaningful opportunities in education and employment. A systems thinker with a deep commitment to fostering inclusivity, he combines his technical acumen and leadership skills to drive organizational success and community development. Beyond his professional achievements, Michael’s dedication to volunteerism—through roles with Curling Canada and the Rotary Club—highlights his passion for empowering others and creating lasting impact.

    Stacey L. Flanagan: Transformational Leader in Public Health and Human Services

    Stacey L. Flanagan is the dynamic Director of the City of Jersey City’s Department of Health and Human Services, where she oversees a $12 million portfolio spanning ten divisions that serve nearly 300,000 residents. With over two decades of leadership experience in public health and nonprofit management, Flanagan has implemented innovative programming and policies that address diverse community needs. A former U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, she brings a global perspective to her work, emphasizing equity, sustainability, and collaboration. Flanagan’s commitment to education and capacity building extends to her role as a part-time faculty member and her dedication to mentoring the next generation of public service leaders. Her transformative impact is grounded in a blend of operational expertise, strategic vision, and an unwavering passion for social justice.

    Dr. Kingsley Ebo, DBA: Dynamic Aviation Leader | Strategic Communicator | Executive with Over 15 Years of Global Experience

    Dr. Kingsley Ebo is a seasoned aviation professional with over 15 years of global experience in aviation management, strategic communication, and operational leadership. Renowned for his ability to navigate complex challenges, he has consistently driven excellence in international flight operations, crew coordination, and customer relations. With a Doctorate in Business Administration and a passion for community impact through philanthropy, Dr. Ebo combines technical expertise, strategic vision, and a customer-centric approach to deliver transformative results. Currently seeking an executive or board-level role, he is poised to leverage his extensive skills to drive growth and innovation across industries.

    Adam Futo: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities.

    I’m excited to share my professional biography, which highlights my journey across project management, land development, education, and leadership. My philosophy of "See a need; fill a need" has guided me to deliver innovative solutions and foster collaboration in every role.

    Darice Rose: Building Sustainable Growth While Creating Meaningful Impact for People and Communities.

    I'm excited to share my professional biography, which reflects my journey as a strategic leader in commercial real estate, innovation, and community development. My passion lies in creating meaningful impact while driving sustainable growth.

    Michael Levitan: Leader and developer of high performing teams and cultures across multiple sectors

    Michael Levitan is a seasoned executive with extensive experience across philanthropy, education, and organizational development. His career spans over three decades, during which he has led successful initiatives in both the nonprofit and corporate sectors. Levitan currently serves as a Visiting Fellow and Adjunct Professor at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, where he teaches, advises high-potential nonprofits, and conducts research on innovative programs to address longstanding challenges in the sector. Previously, he founded and led CourseLoad, Inc., an educational technology company that revolutionized digital course material distribution, and he played key roles in human resources leadership at Emmis Communications and Apple. With a background in international development, Levitan’s work has always been driven by a passion for creating sustainable social impact and fostering organizational growth.

    Frank W. Woodruff: Community Development Leader and Executive Director

    Frank W. Woodruff is a results-driven executive with over 20 years of experience in community development, public policy, and organizational leadership. As the Executive Director of the National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations (NACEDA), Frank has led efforts to transform the organization into a key national voice for over 6,000 community development organizations. Under his leadership, NACEDA’s budget grew from $200,000 to $1.5 million, and its membership expanded from 27 to 6,000 organizations. Frank's strategic vision has shaped capacity-building programs, advocacy efforts, and research initiatives, all focused on advancing economic opportunities for underserved communities. A seasoned public speaker and published author, he frequently addresses issues such as affordable housing, racial equity, and community reinvestment, contributing to major industry publications and national discussions on public policy.

    Scott H. Helms: Empowering Growth and Inspiring Progress

    I’m excited to share my journey and experiences in the banking industry, highlighting over 30 years of work dedicated to growth, community service, and empowering those around me. From leading strategic initiatives to driving community development, here is my biography.

    Libby Post: Advocacy Leader, Political Strategist, and Communications Expert; When a door opens, walk through it.

    I am excited to share my executive biography with you. After over four decades of advocating for progressive causes, leading impactful campaigns, and helping nonprofits thrive, I’ve had the privilege of working across various sectors, including animal welfare, public libraries, and political advocacy.

    Community Outreach: Engaging and Empowering Local Communities

    Community outreach and engagement are essential for fostering trust, addressing local needs, and building meaningful relationships between organizations and the communities they serve. Beyond promoting services or raising awareness, effective outreach creates a two-way dialogue that prioritizes inclusivity, collaboration, and transparency. By partnering with local leaders, actively listening to community feedback, and following through on commitments, organizations can establish credibility and cultivate a shared sense of purpose. Measuring impact through both qualitative and quantitative methods ensures programs remain responsive and impactful, adapting to evolving community dynamics. When approached thoughtfully, outreach becomes a powerful force for lasting connection and positive change.