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The Gerber Foundation Hires New Director

The Gerber Foundation is delighted to announce the hiring of Sara Hohnstein as the next Gerber Foundation Director.  Sara steps into the position pioneered by Cathy Obits, who is retiring at the end of 2022. 

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Sara Hohnstein, director of The Gerber Foundation

The Gerber Foundation is delighted to announce the hiring of Sara Hohnstein as the next Gerber Foundation Director.  Sara steps into the position pioneered by Cathy Obits, who is retiring at the end of 2022.   

‘Sara brings a wonderful perspective to the Foundation with her rich background in private foundation operations and focused experiences in academic research related to science and health.  Sara impressed the Executive Committee with her grounded approach to grant administration, alignment with the Foundation’s mission and articulate communications” stated Barbara J. Ivens, President of the Gerber Foundation.    

For the past ten years, Sara has overseen the operations of a private foundation (the Issachar Fund in Grand Rapids) which primarily focuses on academic research related to science and human flourishing. She has honed her skills as a foundation administrator and brings a wealth of experience in grantmaking. 

A DeVos Children’s Hospital "NICU mom," Sara and her husband, Chad, welcomed their premature twin sons twelve years ago. “My husband and I sat by the incubators of our babies for several weeks. That experience has made a lasting impact on me, and I continue to be passionate about the health and well-being of infants and toddlers. I would be honored to use my professional experience to advance the mission of the Gerber Foundation,” noted Sara.

Sara has always been interested in children's health, safety, and flourishing. She looks forward to joining the Gerber Foundation and helping to advance the Foundation’s mission to enhance the quality of life for infants and young children. Sara will join the Foundation in early September.

Established in 1952, the Foundation is a private foundation whose mission is to enhance the quality of life of infants and young children. The Foundation provides funding for academic research grants nationally and in West Michigan for youth programs and scholarships.
 

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