Published on November 01, 2022
The FFE Board and City Commission both voted unanimously to appoint FFE Manager Steve Brown as the foundation’s first Executive Director.
The Board created the Executive Director position in September after conversations in early 2022 about the ongoing development of the FFE. The position will conduct endowment development, ensure exceptional service and strategic focus, and eliminate the possibility for conflicts of interest for staff serving both the City and FFE.
A Michigan native and resident of The Vine Neighborhood, Brown began his work with the City as a Grant Specialist in 2016 before being tapped to co-found the new FFE organization in 2017 due to his experience directing nonprofits. He was subsequently promoted to the position of Coordinator in 2018 and Manager in 2020 with continually growing responsibilities and a record of success serving the board and City.
In her remarks, President Calderon-Huezo was clear that this appointment was a recognition of hard work as well as an investment in moving this project into the next stages. “I consider it an honor,” said Brown in response, “to continue making the unique original vision of FFE into a powerful new reality in Kalamazoo.”