Nonprofit commences search for executive director

A search for an executive director is officially underway for the Manatee Community Foundation’s board of directors. 

In the meantime, Jennifer Abbott will serve as the interim in the role. The transition was brought on after the current executive director, Susie Bowie, announced she would be joining the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation as president and CEO.

Abbott, with 25 years of nonprofit experience, has been the director of philanthropy for the foundation since 2018. The Bradenton-based foundation is using Freeman Philanthropic Services to complete its search with Bob Turner, the Manatee Community Foundation vice chair, leading the process. 

The foundation is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. In that time it’s awarded nearly $50 million in grants and scholarships.