Kalamazoo Community Foundation hires two employees

Kalamazoo Community Foundation (KZCF) recently hired two new staffers, Kururama Sánchez and Jordan Duckens.
 
Kururama Sánchez is a community investment manager, overseeing a portfolio of grants, providing grantees with technical assistance and representing KZCF in a variety of community initiatives.

Sánchez previously served as a policy and community intern with the City of Detroit. There Sánchez provided leadership for immigration related legislation and “Detroit Our City,” an initiative to create bridges between immigrants and long-time residents.
 
Sánchez holds a dual Bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University in Criminal Justice and Organizational Communication, and a Master’s in Public Policy, including a certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, from University of Michigan.
 
“The Community Foundation’s focus on equity in philanthropy was a huge drawing point for me,” says Sánchez. “The role as a Community Investment Manager at KZCF aligned well with my values and I’m happy to be a part of this team.”
 
Jordan Duckens is a communications officer, using her five years of strategic communications experience with an emphasis in advocacy communications. Duckens comes to KZCF from a communications position with Michigan State University Extension where she promoted access to educational resources for Kalamazoo area residents. 

Previously, she worked at Washington, D.C. – based Enroll America where she connected those without insurance to affordable healthcare options.
 
Duckens earned her Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Howard University and is currently completing a Master’s in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University.
 
“I always seek opportunities that allow me to use my skills as a communicator to make a difference in the lives of others,” says Duckens. “It is such a privilege to have the chance to do meaningful, impactful work within the community I now call home.”
 
KZCF, established in 1925, has the vision of a community where every person can reach full potential and the mission to make life better for all through leadership and stewardship of resources that last forever. Learn more at kalfound.org.

Source: Kalamazoo Community Foundation