Affinity Leadership Resignation
March 18, 2020
Affinity Mentoring today announces the resignation of Laura Ward as executive director. Laura’s last day will be May 22, 2020.
“It is with both gratitude and sadness that I share this news. I have decided to step back from my work because my family commands my full attention at this time. This has been a very difficult decision but is necessary in order to best care for my family,” Laura said.
The Affinity Mentoring Board of Directors is conducting a search to find the new executive director [see Job Posting].
Laura joined Affinity Mentoring as program director in 2011 and was promoted to executive director in 2016. Under her leadership, the organization increased student-mentor-matches from 120 to nearly 300. The organization also expanded the number of schools served from one to four. The Grand Rapids Chamber named Affinity Mentoring the 2019 Non-profit of the Year at its 10th annual EPIC Awards.
“I’m extremely proud of all that we have accomplished together. Affinity’s team of board members, staff, mentors, students, school staff and community partners have all had a significant impact in the community and on my life and career,” Laura said. “Without you, Affinity Mentoring would not be as strong and vibrant as it is.”
“The board of directors are very grateful to Laura for her leadership and vision that helped shape Affinity Mentoring to what it is today, and we wish her well in her next chapter. We will miss the depth of her present involvement. At the same time, we are confident in the ability of the staff, board members, partners, and volunteers to build upon the strong foundation that has been laid and we look forward to what we will accomplish next,” says John Robinson, president of Affinity’s Board of Directors.
Download the Press Release.