We partnered with the Kalamazoo Community Foundation on the search for their next Chief Executive Officer. Founded in 1925, the Kalamazoo Community Foundation (KZCF) strives to address the needs of greater Kalamazoo relating to early childhood learning and school readiness, economic and community development, individuals and families, and youth development. KZCF provides grant support to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for work that aligns with its community investment priorities and that benefit the residents of Kalamazoo County.

Following a national search, our work resulted in the recruitment of Dr. Grace Lubwama to the role. A proven leader, Dr. Lubwama brings more than two decades of experience in the nonprofit and public health sectors to KZCF.

In her role as CEO, Dr. Lubwama will drive the development and implementation of objectives and strategies to ensure the continued achievement of KZCF’s mission as well as the operational and financial health of the organization as it evolves to a scale enabling even greater impact. Dr. Lubwama will also enhance and accelerate KZCF’s strong commitment to Anti-Racism & Equity, a role she embodies naturally. A well-established member of the Kalamazoo community, Dr. Lubwama most recently served as the first Black CEO of the YWCA Kalamazoo. Over the last 9 years she has tirelessly worked to advance the development and expansion of the YWCA’s programs and services. Dr. Lubwama’s tenure at the YWCA is marked by her implementation of Michigan’s first comprehensive human trafficking program, establishing the state’s only comprehensive 24-hour early childhood center, and the founding of Cradle Kalamazoo, a $4.2 million collective impact initiative focused on reducing Black infant mortality in the county. Her work to improve the lives of those in the Kalamazoo community solidified her role as a true trailblazer.

Prior to her time in Kalamazoo, Dr. Lubwama was based in California and spent four years with World Vision, serving as in leadership roles for the organization’s community advocacy programs and regional oversight. Dr. Lubwama is also a native of Uganda.

She serves on the Board of Directors of the Western Michigan University Home Stryker School of Medicine as well as the National Community Advisory Board of Old National Bank.

Dr. Lubwama holds a BA in Industrial Art and Design from Makerere University in Uganda. She received her Masters in Public Health from Boston University. She earned her Doctor of Policy, Planning, and Development from the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy.

Read the press release on the KZCF website.