Teri Hansen to exit Gulf Coast Community Foundation

VENICE — Teri Hansen, who helped build the Gulf Coast Community Foundation into one of the largest nonprofit philanthropy groups in Florida over the past decade, has resigned from her leadership role.

Hansen, president and CEO of the foundation since 2002, will oversee operations for the Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation, a Sarasota-based private family foundation, according to a release. Hansen's last day with Gulf Coast Community Foundation will be June 30. The board of directors for the foundation, with $274.5 million in assets in 2014, has begun the search process to find Hansen's replacement, the release adds.

“One of Teri's most important accomplishments has been to ensure that a strong board, professional staff, and sound policies are in place at Gulf Coast,” board chair Ben Hanan says in the release. “I am confident that Gulf Coast will continue to transform our region, while providing the service that our donors count on us for, throughout this transition and as we move forward.”

Hansen, named to the Business Observer's list of the 50 most powerful people on the Gulf Coast in 2011, is a familiar face in the Sarasota philanthropic and business community. She's overseen several initiatives and programs, from an online volunteer portal to growing a base of area entrepreneurs, that have received statewide attention.

The foundation, originally named the Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice, was founded in 1995 with $85 million in assets after Bon Secours Health System bought Venice Hospital. The foundation has since awarded more than $180 million in grants, programs and scholarships, including $18 million last year.

Hansen says she plans to work closely with the foundation's board during the leadership transition.

“I have been offered a unique opportunity to help a family whom I admire deeply create their legacy,” Hansen says in the statement. “Chuck and Margie Barancik are committed to this community, and they would like to partner with Gulf Coast on future initiatives. By working with the Baranciks to grow their significant philanthropic investments while Gulf Coast continues to lead our region forward, I believe I can help make our community stronger than ever.”