Community Foundation announces leadership transition

Jun. 9, 2011

After three years of serving as President of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Barry Griswell will transition to Chief Executive Officer effective July 1. The Community Foundation Board of Directors promoted Kristi Knous to President and Chief Operating Officer effective July 1.

 

Griswell joined the Community Foundation as President in 2008 after a distinguished career with the Principal Financial Group and determined at that time he would serve as President for three to four years. Knous has been employed at the Community Foundation since April 2002 and has served as Vice President of Donor Relations and Community Investment since March 2006.

 

The Community Foundation was founded in 1969 and is a donor-driven public foundation whose purpose is to improve the quality of life in Greater Des Moines through philanthropy. The Community Foundation currently manages assets in excess of $192 million and administers more than 800 charitable funds.  Last year the Community Foundation and its donors distributed a record $30 million in grants.

 

Community Foundation Board Chair Allison Fleming said, "Barry's leadership, vision and business acumen have greatly strengthened the Community Foundation in so many areas as a convener and leader. Pair that with Kristi's established ties with the nonprofit sector and community leaders along with her proven leadership at the Community Foundation for nearly ten years, and we have the best of both worlds.  The board is so pleased to move forward with Barry and Kristi providing stellar leadership for the Community Foundation."

 

Griswell said, "I have thoroughly enjoyed serving in a full-time capacity as President for the past three years. The Community Foundation is in a wonderful period of momentum and plays such a key role in strengthening Greater Des Moines. I look forward to continuing to contribute to the Community Foundation's growth alongside Kristi as she accepts this exciting new position." 

 

Knous said, "I am thrilled by the invitation to lead this wonderful organization.  The Community Foundation is a dynamic community asset with a proven track record of using philanthropy to strengthen our community and improve quality of life.  I feel blessed to work with Barry and our first-class board of directors. I look forward to continuing our work at an even more advanced level."