On June 23, the ACF staff, board and community partners joined together for a goodbye reception for longtime ACF President & CEO Candace Winkler at the home of Diane Kaplan & Mel Sather. The board presented a beautiful mask created by Alaska Native artist Drew Michael to honor Candace’s leadership at ACF. Drew commented that the mask represented Candace’s role in reaching out her arms to embrace Alaskans and symbolized her as a nurturing figure for Alaska’s nonprofits and donors.
The ACF Board presented a beautiful piece of art by Alaskan artist Drew Michael
The event also helped ACF welcome Susan Foley, ACF Interim President/CEO, who is no stranger to ACF. Susan served on the ACF board from 2005 – 2014, and as the Board President from 2011-2012. A longtime supporter of the Alaska Community Foundation, Susan and her husband, Richard Foley, hold a fund here at ACF. Both lawyers who specialize in wills and trusts at the firm Foley, Foley & Pearson, Susan and her husband have helped guide many individuals over the years to ACF in their estate planning. She is now retired from practicing law and is eager to work with donors and their professional advisors on establishing their legacy through ACF.
Susan noted that she is excited to help guide ACF during this time of transition.
“I’m fortunate to come into an organization with so many capable and committed staff members.” Susan said. “Each day broadens my perspective on the crucial work ACF does throughout the state. Thanks to all who have welcomed me.”
The board and staff of ACF are thrilled to have Susan on staff so the search for a new CEO can be deliberate. We are confident that the organization is in capable hands!