The Charlotte Community Foundation welcomes a new era of leadership with the appointment of Dr. Shelley Strickland as its Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Strickland brings not only a wealth of academic achievements but a deep-rooted commitment to community engagement and philanthropy.
Born on an Air Force Base in Oklahoma, Shelley’s upbringing in Michigan was marked by strong familial bonds and a sense of community. Her parents’ union, forged in the setting of a church where her paternal grandfather served as pastor, laid the foundation for her appreciation of interconnectedness. This sentiment extends to her grandparents, who spent half the year in Florida, leaving an indelible mark on her life through cherished memories and a collection of flamingo-themed mementos.
Her journey intertwines with the sport of golf, a shared passion with her husband, PGA golf professional Tim, and their son, Mitchell, a collegiate golfer. Their love story, which dates from childhood connections and has culminated in a 25-year marriage, highlights not only personal connections but also the joy of sports and outdoor activities as avenues for community building.
Beyond the greens, Shelley’s commitment to education and literature shines through. Armed with a doctorate in higher education administration, she emphasizes the importance of reading and critical thinking. Her background in leadership and philanthropy, explored in her dissertation, underlines her dedication to making informed, data-driven decisions—a quality she considers essential for effective community service.
For Shelley, the allure of small-town living and the genuine connections forged within a close-knit community drew her to the Charlotte Community Foundation. She emphasizes the unique impact achievable in smaller settings, where community engagement leads to tangible results. In her words, “There’s something special about the sense of community that arises when residents know each other, run into familiar faces at the grocery store, and share a genuine connection.”
Addressing misconceptions about philanthropy, Dr. Strickland notes, “In truth, everyone is a philanthropist.” She advocates for a broader understanding of philanthropy beyond financial contributions, encompassing time and talent. With her background in teaching philanthropy at the University of Michigan, she expresses optimism for the future, citing the next generation’s commitment to making a difference and supporting nonprofits.
As Dr. Shelley Strickland assumes her role as CEO of the Charlotte Community Foundation, the public is invited to grow a little closer to her—a leader whose varied interests, personal anecdotes, and professional expertise converge to foster a spirit of community, engagement, and positive change.