Molly Kunkel is retiring from her role as president and CEO of Centre Foundation after leading the nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting philanthropy in Centre County for the past 12 years.
Kunkel, who joined the foundation in 2008 as deputy director and was appointed to the top post in 2013, plans to step down later this year, the organization announced.
“Molly has been a transformative leader for Centre Foundation,” Erin Meitzler, chair of Centre Foundation Board of Directors, said in a statement. “Her vision, passion and unwavering commitment to our mission have guided the organization through significant growth and impact. We are incredibly grateful for her service.”
The board credited Kunkel with playing “a pivotal role in shaping the foundation into the vibrant, community-centered organization it is today,” noting that “assets and grantmaking
have grown significantly, while its commitment to local nonprofits, collective giving and strategic impact has deepened.”
Her tenure included the launch and growth of Centre Gives, the 36-hour online giving event that to date has raised more than $22.5 million for local nonprofits. Kunkel also introduced initiatives such as Centre Inspires, a grant program to support projects designed to create change on a county-wide scale through community engagement; Giving Circle, a membership-based group group of community members who pool their resources for grants to local programs and projects; and Centre PACT, the foundation’s philanthropy program for high school students.
“It’s been such an honor to lead this amazing organization, and to have been supported by the generous donors, staff, board of directors and nonprofits who have all worked together to create a thriving community,” Kunkel said in a statement. “I am thankful that I had the opportunity to play a small role in creating this wonderful legacy. I look forward to continuing to be engaged in a new way, while also being able to enjoy more time with family and friends.”
Kunkel will remain in her role for “several months” to support the transition to the next leader, according to the organization.
Centre Foundation’s Board of Directors has established a transition committee and will engage an executive search firm to lead the process of selecting Kunkel’s successor. The search will include input from staff, board members and community stakeholders.
