Nada Wheelock, the executive director of the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools, is stepping down in April after leading the nonprofit for seven years. The foundation announced that Jenny Thompson, the current executive director of the Police Activities League of Southwest Washington, has been appointed as the foundation’s new leader and will begin duties in mid-April following Wheelock’s departure. Since being appointed to the lead role in 2015, Wheelock saw the foundation’s long-term asset base skyrocket: from $3 million to $15 million as of 2022. Just two weeks ago, on Feb. 28, the foundation announced it had received a $5 million gift from the estate of Pamela Edstrom and Joseph Lamberton — the largest single donation it has received since being established in 1988. Amy Davis, the president of the foundation’s board of directors, said Wheelock was critical to the nonprofit’s mission and progression.

“Nada is passionate about our mission, formed genuine relationships and increased the Foundation’s capacity to adroitly address the community’s needs,” Davis said in a press release Thursday. “She is leaving the organization in excellent shape.” When Thompson steps into the role, she’ll be serving as the foundation’s head fundraiser, in addition to directing staff, organizing the budget and overseeing general operations. She’ll also serve as the liaison between the foundation and Vancouver Public Schools’ board of directors. Thompson has an MBA in nonprofit management from the University of Portland and has more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, according to the foundation. “I am excited about this opportunity, continuing to give back to the community, continuing the incredible work of the Foundation for VPS,” Thompson said.

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