Persistence, perseverance, compassion and innovation. Those four words immediately come to mind when I think of the Bainum family, with whom I’ve had the honor of working for the past decade. From partnering with Stewart Bainum when I was a school principal to consulting with the Foundation, to leading our Seventh-day Adventist Initiative, to — most recently — serving Barbara Bainum and our Board of Directors and team as the Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer, I have seen these traits reflected in every effort and interaction.

They grew out of Stewart and Jane Bainum’s humble beginnings, were passed on to each new generation of the family, and now underpin our core values. This is a family that has never forgotten its roots, and they hold a sincere belief in paying it forward. While I have always shared this commitment, as CEO and President I now take on greater responsibility for upholding this enduring family legacy.

After the Foundation’s first leadership transition, when Mr. Bainum retired from active management of the Foundation, Barbara seamlessly picked up where her parents left off — embracing a new strategy, expanding initiatives and remaining just as laser focused as her parents on this critical question: How can we best improve outcomes for children and families living in poverty? She was willing to innovate and take risks, and she established a strong team of professionals dedicated to advancing our mission every day. We greatly appreciate all she’s done.

I am humbled that the family and the Board have entrusted me not only with stewarding the Foundation’s resources but also with representing the Bainum name. As we embark upon strategic planning to chart our next chapter, we are confident that the legacy of our founders, our core values and a deep commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion will serve as our guiding principles, and in close collaboration with our partners and the community, we can achieve meaningful and sustainable impact.