The Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University has a new leader.
Lesley Slavitt, an Illinois native with nearly three decades of experience in philanthropy and higher education, was named the next executive director of the center. She started the job Monday, filling the role left by Teri Behrens when she retired after 14 years with the center, including four in the top job.
Slavitt, 53, has held several leadership positions at corporate foundations throughout her career. As COO of the Bank One Foundation, she helped steer its merger with the JPMorgan Chase Foundation, and she served as senior adviser to the chairman of the JPMorgan Chase Foundation. She also served as the head of civic engagement and CEO of Fiat Chrysler Foundation.
Slavitt also previously oversaw civic affairs and communications for Roosevelt University in Chicago and worked in urban innovation. In 2020, she led initiatives in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ COVID-19 response. Slavitt earned her Ph.D. in planning from The Bartlett School of the Built Environment at University College London.
“Dr. Slavitt brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will help the Johnson Center elevate its nationally recognized work helping people and organizations advance and strengthen their philanthropic efforts,” GVSU President Philomena Mantella said in a news release. “She brings a global perspective and a keen understanding that the Johnson Center is a rare and exciting opportunity for deep impact.”
Slavitt joins the Johnson Center as it is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The center conducts research on donor-advised funds, giving circles and international philanthropy, and it also offers professional development options.
“The Johnson Center is at the forefront of translational work bridging research and practice that catalyzes the philanthropic sector’s advancement. As an organization with a track record of valuing people, data-informed decision making, and life-long learning, it is a center of excellence that reflects and extends the ideals of GVSU,” Slavitt said in the release. “It is a privilege to join such dedicated and talented colleagues and serve as executive director of this unparalleled organization as it enters its fourth decade of transformative work.”
The Johnson Center was established at GVSU in 1992 with support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the university. Its mission is to be a global leader in helping individuals and organizations understand, strengthen, and advance philanthropy, resulting in a smart, adaptive sector that helps create strong, inclusive communities.
Senior reporter Sherri Welch contributed to this story.
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