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Grantee & Applicant Perception Summary
To better understand partner perceptions and how to best serve its communities, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation collaborated with the Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP) to administer their Grantee and Applicant Perception surveys. To complement these findings, the foundation enlisted the Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University to conduct interviews with key partners. This two-part process utilized CEP’s refined surveys and custom interviews to capture comprehensive perspectives from intermediaries and grantees.
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Stephanie Comai Joins the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation as Senior Program Officer
Detroit, MI (June 11, 2024) – Stephanie Comai has joined the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation as a senior program officer supporting the development and implementation of grantmaking strategies for the Foundation’s Young Adults and Working Families portfolio and initiative-level work across Southeast Michigan and Western New York.
Comai is a seasoned leader in developing and managing workforce development programs whose extensive background includes holding the position of chief of staff to the president at Washtenaw Community College until 2019, serving as deputy director of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and serving as the first director of the Michigan Talent Investment Agency. In this role, she and her team launched new efforts to help broaden career options for young people interested in careers in the skilled trades.
“Stephanie’s dedication to achieving positive, measurable outcomes for communities in Southeast Michigan is evident in her track record of building partnerships and driving innovative initiatives,” said David O. Egner, president & CEO, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. “Stephanie’s passion for empowering young adults and working families aligns perfectly with the Foundation’s mission, making her an asset to both of our grantmaking regions.”
Comai holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Michigan and a Master of Public Administration from George Washington University.
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ABOUT THE RALPH C. WILSON, JR. FOUNDATION:
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation is a grantmaking organization dedicated primarily to sustained investment in the quality of life of the people of Southeast Michigan and Western New York. The two areas reflect the devotion of Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. to his hometown of Detroit and greater Buffalo, home of his beloved Buffalo Bills NFL team. Prior to his passing in 2014, Mr. Wilson provided that a significant share of his estate be used to continue a life-long generosity of spirit by funding the Foundation that bears his name. Based in Detroit, the Foundation began with a grantmaking capacity of $1.2 billion over a 20-year period, which expires January 8, 2035. This structure is consistent with Mr. Wilson’s desire for the Foundation’s impact to be immediate, substantial, measurable, and overseen by those who knew him best. For more information visit www.rcwjrf.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Carly Strachan
313.460.8100