The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan has welcomed Nicole Sherard-Freeman to the role of president and CEO. As she begins her tenure, Sherard-Freeman is sharing a message with our CMF community of philanthropy.
The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan welcomed Nicole Sherard-Freeman to the role of president and CEO, as of January 1, 2025. Sherard-Freeman joined the community foundation as Chief Operating Officer in July 2023, coming from a key role in Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan’s administration leading Economic and Workforce Development. Prior to that, she held senior positions in the nonprofit and corporate worlds, including past president and CEO of a local quasi-government agency.
As she begins her tenure, Sherard-Freeman is sharing a message with our CMF community of philanthropy:
As I step into the role of Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan president in 2025, I’m both grateful and excited about leading this remarkable organization.
For over 40 years, the community foundation has been a trusted partner, bringing people together to make a difference in Southeast Michigan and beyond. Since 1984, we’ve granted $1.4 billion via 91,000 grants to thousands of nonprofits working to benefit the well-being of communities in the seven counties we serve. Thanks to our funders and generous donors, we’ve also grown our assets under management to $1.3 billion, enabling us to continue this work in perpetuity.
Our impact is built on the leadership of my predecessors, Richard (Ric) DeVore and Mariam Noland, and the dedication and creativity of our staff. Together, along with community partners like you, we’ve uplifted individuals, supported families, and strengthened communities, creating a legacy we can all be proud of.
As we move forward together, my vision is clear: to build on this strong foundation while exploring new ways to engage more people in philanthropy and deepen our positive impact. This year will be about strengthening my relationships with fellow foundation leaders, the Council of Michigan Foundations, the Governor’s Office of Foundation Liaison and other relevant public-private partnerships so we can make progress toward our shared goals.
When it comes to philanthropy, we are stronger when we work together.
Please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected]. I look forward to collaborating with you to ensure all people can thrive in the state we call home.
Want more?
Learn more about Sherard-Freeman on her community foundation staff page.
