Columbia Foundation Hires New President

By Susan Kim, STAFF WRITER

The Columbia Foundation hired Beverley Francis as president and CEO. She will replace outgoing president Barbara Lawson, who has been at the helm of the foundation since 1989.
"As the new president and CEO of The Columbia Foundation, I am most excited about the opportunity to increase the visibility and the assets of the foundation while continuing to make meaningful grants that support programs and initiatives in the community," said Francis.
As president and CEO, Francis will oversee the continued growth of the foundation's $16 million endowment and more than $700,000 in annual grant programs.
She will begin her new job in June and planned to meet foundation donors and the local nonprofit community at the foundation's 26th Annual Spring Party, which was held at the Spear Center at General Growth Properties in Columbia on May 1.
Francis comes to town from the Triangle Community Foundation in Research Triangle Park, N.C., where she has worked for 10 years and has been serving as director of philanthropic services. During her tenure, the foundation grew from $85 million to $130 million. It holds more than 700 funds, of which Francis personally managed 250.
In a prior role, Francis was also executive director for Women-in-Action, a Durham, N.C.-based organization dedicated to the prevention of violence. Francis was responsible for the organization's fundraising and marketing, including bringing in seven-figure gifts. She also has served as a guest lecturer at the University of North Carolina on the subject of philanthropy.
Francis was chosen from a significant pool of candidates who applied from throughout the region, said Meg Moon, chair of The Columbia Foundation's board of trustees.
"She was just the right fit for the foundation and she will be a real benefit as part of our community," said Moon. "The vast majority of the board was involved in this decision in some shape or form."
Mary Ann Scully, vice chair of the foundation's board of trustees, agreed that Francis will bring many skills to the foundation.
"Beverley is experienced, passionate, optimistic and excited," said Scully.
The Columbia Foundation has awarded more than $9 million in grants to Howard County nonprofit organizations delivering human service, arts and cultural, educational and civic programs. Money for the grant programs comes primarily from income generated by the foundation's endowment, which is supported by more than 250 funds established by Howard County businesses, families and individuals.