For the past 12 years, Dr. Gretchen Vanderveer has served as primary driver for the tremendous growth and impact that Fair Chance has had in our community, and today, as a result of a long and thoughtful process, we are announcing she will be stepping down from her Co-CEO role effective September 30, 2025. To ensure a smooth transition, Gretchen will continue to support Fair Chance in a part-time capacity as Senior Advisor over the coming months, focusing on a few key initiatives and onboarding for new leadership including the Coalition for Nonprofit Equity.
“I am extremely proud of Fair Chance’s unique niche in the nonprofit landscape and the leadership we’ve demonstrated in elevating the voices of nonprofit leaders—especially Black and Brown leaders east of the river” said Dr. Vanderveer. “We’ve remained true to our mission which started in Wards 7 and 8, growing to meet new needs while preserving the deep, transformational work of our core partnership model. It has been a tremendous honor to collaborate with so many dedicated nonprofit, philanthropic, and public sector leaders throughout the region.”
Jim Myers, Chair of the Fair Chance Board of Directors, shared the Board’s appreciation:
“Gretchen’s leadership has left an indelible mark on Fair Chance and the communities we serve. While this may come as a surprise to some, this transition is the result of a long and thoughtful succession planning process, we are grateful for her steady hand, visionary thinking, and continued support over the years. As a result of her efforts, Fair Chance is well-positioned for the future, and we look forward to seeing her talents continue to advance the greater social good.”
To guide Fair Chance through this next chapter, the Board has appointed Jeffrey Franco as Interim Co-CEO, joining Ann Miles, who will continue in her role as Co-CEO. Miles has been with Fair Chance for the past 7+ years as the Chief Program Officer and whose significant leadership has driven growth for the organization. Jeffrey brings deep experience as the former Executive Director of City Year DC and as a respected nonprofit consultant, including a previous engagement with Fair Chance in 2019–2020. He is well-known and trusted by our staff, Board, and nonprofit partners.
Please join us in thanking Gretchen for her extraordinary service and leadership, and in welcoming Jeffrey into this important role as we continue our mission to strengthen nonprofits and ensure every child has a fair chance to succeed.
