ake Huron Foundation (LHF) is pleased to announce Chandra Gruber has joined the organization as its Director, effective December 31, 2018. In her role, Ms. Gruber is responsible for overseeing the administration, programs, strategic plan and financial viability of the Foundation.
Ms. Gruber brings more than 20 years of combined corporate and non-profit organizational leadership, program development experience, fundraising and grantmaking experience. She succeeds Laura Cottengim, who held the position for three and a half years, co-leading efforts to re-locate the People’s Clinic for Better Health to expand services offerings to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the most vulnerable members of the local community. During her tenure, both individuals served and assets tripled in size.
“I can’t express enough gratitude for the privilege of serving this foundation or for the successes we have all achieved together throughout the past three years,” said Laura Cottengim, Director of Business Development and Marketing for Lake Huron Medical Center. “Chandra’s leadership, sincere appreciation for our culture and proven track record for fostering relationships that deliver positive outcomes will ensure Lake Huron Foundation continues to serve those most in need for many years to come.”
Ms. Cottengim will continue to serve as a member of the Lake Huron Foundation Governing Board and the Director of Business Development and Marketing for Lake Huron Medical Center in a full-time capacity.
“I would like to thank Laura for her dedication, commitment and passion to keeping the mission of the Foundation moving forward. I am excited to help further advance the important and impactful work of the Foundation and the People’s Clinic for Better Health. I look forward to collaborating with local leaders and stakeholders to enhance our sustaining partnerships with community organizations and donors, and identify and cultivate new relationships to ensure our organizational sustainability.” said Ms. Gruber. “Continuing the legacy of the foundation and its assets, including the People’s Clinic for Better Health, are of the utmost importance.”
“We are excited to have Chandra leading the foundation’s initiatives” said Jennifer Smith- Deegan, Chair of the Lake Huron Foundation Board. “Her experience and proven track record will ensure we continue to meet our standards for delivering high-quality patient care.”
Previously, Ms. Gruber was the Director of Corporate and Foundation Giving for Children’s Heartlink in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She also held foundation and giving positions at General Motors Foundation in Detroit, Michigan and St. Jude Medical in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management Information Systems from Metropolitan State University in Minneapolis, Minnesota.