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Chanda Smith Baker, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation President & CEO, shares a note to community on her first day leading the Foundation.

Chanda Smith Baker
Chanda Smith Baker

To our partners in community,

As I step into my role as President & CEO of the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, I want to share how honored I am to do this work with you.

We are in a moment of both challenge and possibility for our state, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to partner with you on this next chapter. I look forward to learning from you, building alongside you, and deepening our collective impact.

Listening has always been at the center of my leadership, and it will continue to guide me here.

As I spend time in communities across Minnesota, I want to hear your experiences, your hopes, and the challenges and opportunities you see ahead. I am eager to learn how the Foundation can continue to be a trusted partner in advancing a strong, inclusive future.

I look forward to the many ways our paths will cross. Thank you for your leadership and efforts to strengthen and uplift our communities.

With gratitude and excitement,

Chanda Smith Baker
President & CEO
Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation

“We are in a moment of both challenge and possibility for our state, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to partner with you on this next chapter.

Chanda Smith Baker, President & CEO

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