After more than five years of leadership, Nancy Brown will step down as President and CEO of the Winona Community Foundation at the end of December. Brown, who has led the organization since 2019, made the decision to leave in order to focus on more personal endeavors with her husband.
“This is not a decision I made lightly. I am incredibly grateful for the relationships and opportunities the Winona community has given me, especially during my time at the Foundation,” Brown shared. “However, the Foundation is in a strong position to continue growing, and it feels like the right moment for me to pass the baton to someone who can take it to the next level.”
The Foundation’s Board of Directors has appointed Mandi Olson, the current Finance Director, as the next President and CEO. Jacob Woodworth, Chair of the Board, expressed confidence in Olson’s ability to lead the organization forward: “Mandi has the expertise and experience to build on the Foundation’s successes. Her deep understanding of the Foundation’s operations, finances, and policies will ensure a smooth transition for our donors, fund holders, and grantees.”
Olson has been with the Winona Community Foundation since 2019, bringing with her a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector. Prior to her work with the Foundation, Olson served as Executive Director of Ready Set School, where she doubled annual giving and expanded services to 62% more students in just five years. She also held key roles at Cotter Schools, leading fundraising efforts and managing alumni relations, as well as working in international admissions and enrollment management.
“I am honored to continue the work that Nancy has so successfully led over the past few years,” said Olson. “I’m excited to connect people with causes that matter to them and to help the Foundation grow its impact in the community. We are committed to building a resource that will support local charitable initiatives for generations to come.”
In addition to her professional experience, Olson has been deeply involved in local volunteer initiatives. Most recently, she and a small committee raised $60,000 for a playground project, underscoring her dedication to community development.
Olson holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) in Organizational Management from Viterbo University. She lives in Winona with her husband, Todd, and their two daughters, Maylene and Susanna. Olson will officially begin her new role on January 1, 2025.
The Winona Community Foundation is dedicated to igniting generosity and fostering philanthropic giving. The Foundation collaborates with donors, nonprofits, and community partners to address both immediate and long-term needs, strengthening Winona through the power of giving.
