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Looking back over the past seven years I have been Chair of the Norris Foundation, I am extremely proud of how far we have come. We have composed a mission statement that expresses the board’s commitment to the community. We meet on a regular basis and attend philanthropic conferences to keep us abreast of the best ways to pursue our mission. Our members are more oriented to the needs of their communities. All in all, we have become a cohesive group, united in our goals.
It is now time for the third generation to take over leadership. With much joy and pride, I pass the torch to my daughter, Lisa Hansen. Not only has Lisa been a trustee for over ten years, she has held many leadership posts in the community. She is an invaluable asset to our team, and I am excited to see where she will be taking us.
With the third generation now leading, and the fourth poised to start participating, the foundation is being infused with new ideas and fresh energy. I look forward to a wonderful future for the Norris Foundation.
Harlyne J. Norris
Trustee,
Norris Foundation Board of Trustees
As I revisit the history of the Norris Foundation in this year’s report, I am reminded of what has sustained us over these five decades: a fundamental commitment to freedom, compassion, respect and responsibility. We not only believe in these timeless ideals as an entity, but look for them in our grantees.
I continue to be inspired by the many incredible people and organizations taking care of those with needs. It is our honor to be able to support those efforts and the common values we hold dear.
This past year was a very positive one for the Norris Foundation. After three years of declining markets, the foundation has rebounded along with the national economy. We also celebrated a very significant milestone: our fortieth anniversary. At the celebration with family, friends and colleagues, the spirit and energy in the room assured me that the next forty years will be even better. The evening offered the opportunity to announce my taking over as Chair.
I am extremely honored to hold this position. I am also very grateful for the confidence in me shown by the Board of Trustees, whose opinions I truly value.
Not enough can be said about our outgoing Chair, Harlyne Norris, and the extraordinary strides she made during her tenure. Among other advances, she updated our business practices, elicited more family participation, and encouraged all to enrich their knowledge through conferences and seminars. The Norris Foundation will always be grateful to her for creating the platform from which we can take off. We are thankful that Harlyne will remain on the board as her advice and experience are invaluable.
With a fourth generation on the cusp of participating in the foundation, it is my goal to keep intact the long-standing commitment to our values while remaining flexible and responsive to ever-changing needs. There is always more to do and learn in order to prepare the next generation for the business of grant making. I am looking forward to the journey.
Lisa D. Hansen
Chair, Norris Foundation Board of Trustees
Emeritus Chair, Norris Foundation Board of Trustees.............................
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