Dear Friends,
I’ve enjoyed working with you and your organization over the years! After
30 years with the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation, I’ve decided
to retire. As I reflect over the last three decades, together we have made
strides, some harder than others. I’m proud of the work we have
accomplished – changing educational outcomes and providing resources in
under resourced areas. Our effort secured $85.4 million in programming
across North Carolina from the North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline
Foundation.
I have many fond memories, proud moments, and reflections on your
passion for changing inequities and building up education through
countless ways, a multitude of goals, objectives, and activities. I’m still
awed by the passion demonstrated during our listening tours years ago.
We traveled across the state and talked with over 200 nonprofits, and the
outcome was designing our Ribbon of Hope Grant program.
Today the Ribbon of Hope grant program has impacted all 100 North
Carolina counties. We transformed the reach of the Foundation, and that
meant support could be provided in communities that were under
resourced. Another milestone is growing the Women in Science Scholars
endowments from 11 North Carolina colleges and universities to 30 to
provide scholarships annually at each institution. Additionally, we grew the
Child Health Recognition Awards program recognizing initiatives by public
health professionals and local health departments that improve health
outcomes for children.
I could not have excelled without your participation. I’m thankful for the
opportunity to meet each of you and learn your high standards as we
worked to craft a proposal. The support of the staff, board of directors, and
my family has allowed me to feel fulfilled – and I’m excited for my next
phase – Retirement.
With gratitude and best wishes,
Marilyn