Lorna Knight has officially begun her tenure as the new executive director of the Community Foundation of Portage and District, stepping into the role on May 1. She replaces Kimberly Lavallee, who is retiring after three years leading the organization.
A seamless transition
Knight notes her first official day was May 1, crediting Lavallee for easing the transition.
“I’ve got a great opportunity to job shadow here with Kim, who is leaving behind a wonderful legacy,” she says. “The handover is going quite well, very seamless. The board and staff have been very accommodating and supportive.”
The move aligns with Knight’s long-standing commitment to local nonprofits.
“I’ve always been a big proponent of giving back and supporting community organizations in Portage,” she adds. “This seemed like the most logical next step.”
With Lavallee assisting through June’s annual foundation celebration, Knight says she’s focused on learning the ropes before implementing her own vision.
“I look forward to putting my own stamp on a few new activities as they come up over the next year,” she continues.
A bittersweet farewell
Lavallee, who has led the foundation since 2021, calls her departure “very bittersweet,” citing family priorities.
“Some personal family issues have arisen that I need to focus on,” she says. “Family always has to be first.”
Reflecting on her tenure, Lavallee highlights relationships with donors and grantees as career highlights.
“The best part of the job is meeting with donors and grantees. They get excited when they get a grant,” she notes. “Building relationships with all those people has really been the highlight.”
Though retiring, Lavallee expresses confidence in Knight’s leadership.
“I feel very confident she’ll do a wonderful job,” she adds. Her post-retirement plans include travel and time with family. “I’m looking forward to spending quality time with my three grandchildren—hanging out with them, as my son calls it, not babysitting.”
Lavallee closes with gratitude:
“Thank you to the board for the opportunity and to all the people I’ve crossed paths with. I value every bit of it.”