Chanda Smith Baker Named President & CEO of the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
A Letter to the Community from the Board of Directors
On behalf of the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation Board of Directors, I am thrilled to announce that we have named Chanda Smith Baker as our next President & CEO.
She will step into the role on August 25, succeeding Dr. Eric Jolly, who will retire at the end of July after 10 years of distinguished leadership through a period of transformative change.
Chanda emerged as the clear choice from a national search that attracted a remarkable group of accomplished candidates. She brings a proven track record of leadership in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors, and a deep belief in what is possible when people from all backgrounds unite under a common purpose.
She is recognized both locally and nationally not only as a seasoned executive, but as a thought-leader, speaker and convener. Chanda has consistently aligned vital resources with community needs, all while fostering trust. She has been called upon by major institutions, corporations and community organizations to advise on urgent investments and equity-centered decision-making, particularly during times of widespread social unrest.
A Strong Background and Visionary Leadership
Chanda joins the Foundation from Smith Baker; the organization she founded to cultivate leadership and drive transformative change across businesses and communities. She previously served as Chief Impact Officer at the Minneapolis Foundation and as Chief Executive Officer of Pillsbury United Communities. In these roles, she forged expansive partnerships with donors and community leaders to expand pathways to opportunity.
A visionary in community leadership, Chanda helped launch several groundbreaking initiatives, including the Black Collective Foundation MN — Minnesota’s first Black community foundation — and North Market, a full-service community grocery store and wellness center.
Her exceptional work has earned numerous accolades, including recognition as a 2025 Bush Fellow. Through the fellowship, Chanda is focusing on wellness, deepening her leadership skills in service to the community, and strengthening her storytelling to influence positive change.
Chanda has long championed equitable, enduring institutions across our region and beyond. Her dedication to purposeful bridge building in collaboration with donors, nonprofit leaders and community members will undoubtedly enhance our ability to achieve the bold goals outlined in our new strategic plan.
A Bright Future for the Foundation
As we look ahead, I want to express deep gratitude to Dr. Jolly for his unwavering belief in the power of community and for leading with wisdom, humility and heart. While his last official day with the Foundation will be July 25, his legacy will continue to inspire generations. In the interim, our Chief Financial Officer Scott Zastoupil will serve as Interim President & CEO until Chanda joins us.
I look forward to all of you having the opportunity to meet Chanda. Meanwhile, for more information, download the full press release.
Dr. Joseph Lee
Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation Board Chair
More Stories
Making Red Wing an Arts & Culture Destination
Art adds value to every community – and in Red Wing, Minnesota, a collaboration is bolstering economic growth and cultural vibrancy.
See the Highlights
A Letter from Chanda On Her First Day
Chanda Smith Baker, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation President & CEO, shares a note to community on her first day leading the Foundation.
Read the letter
Inspiring Generosity in the Arts
At a recent Giving+Together event, art leaders addressed the economic and cultural benefits of the arts in our lives.
See the Highlights
Warroad RiverPlace: Where Art Meets Community Engagement
Learn how one arts nonprofit is making art more accessible in Warroad.
Read the story
Celebrating the Strength of Saint Paul’s Neighborhoods
Listen to stories from Saint Paul community leaders representing Rondo, Frogtown, the East Side, the West Side and the Mississippi River.
See the impact
1 Day At A Time: Connecting Unhoused Minnesotans to Housing Resources
Learn how Richard McLemore II is bridging the gap between housing resources and those who need them most.
See the impact
Finding Joy in Remembrance: Honoring George Floyd Five Years Later
Leslie E. Redmond organizes commemorative event for George Floyd and reflects on her work as an activist.
Read the announcement
The Foundation Convenes Minnesota Experts on the Housing Continuum
Housing leaders emphasize the economic and social benefits of addressing the state's growing housing crisis.
See the Highlights