The best ways to leverage capitalism to accelerate and build wealth for all people August 15, 2022 Throughout our years of work, we at Living Cities have analyzed the mechanisms of capitalism that have gotten us here. We understand the systemic racism that has been at the core of our capitalist system since our country’s founding, and we are looking to create the best ways to leverage parts of capitalism for a […]
‘We understand the strength of our community.’ August 9, 2022 John Williams of the Native American Community Development Institute, a Kauffman grantee, discusses how they are strengthening the economic development ecosystem in the Twin Cities with and for the urban Indian community living there.
Olatunji Ajani Olatunji Ajani is a program officer – heartland strategy in Entrepreneurship for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. He manages a broad grant portfolio to foster inclusive prosperity through entrepreneurship in the Heartland, building and maintaining community outreach efforts and relationships relevant to our work. Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Ajani worked with the Aspen Network of Development […]
‘Kauffman Scholars is always going to be a part of me.’ July 18, 2022 These Uncommon Conversations explore the personal experiences of recent Kauffman Scholars program graduates as they reflect on the continued impact and legacy of the program.
Inclusive and equitable economies are created when cities prioritize them July 13, 2022 In this Q&A, Karen Freeman-Wilson discusses the importance of local government and economic development that intentionally supports entrepreneurs, especially those who are underserved.
Ori Solomon Ori Solomon is a front desk receptionist in Talent & Culture for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. He provides front office support to clients and associates and assists with day-to-day administrative responsibilities. Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Solomon was an event coordinator and store manager with Betty Rae’s Ice Cream, where he coordinated and […]
Dawn Kernen Dawn Kernen is a data knowledge and operations specialist in Technology for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. She is responsible for working with program areas and external vendors to define and manage business data, data systems and relationships, while providing operational support to make Kauffman a data-enabled organization. Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Kernen […]
Meredith Walrafen Meredith Walrafen is a program officer – heartland strategy in Entrepreneurship for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. She manages a broad grant portfolio to foster inclusive prosperity through entrepreneurship in the heartland, building and maintaining community outreach efforts and relationships relevant to our work. Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Walrafen was the program manager […]
Dan Earnest Dan Earnest is an executive administrative assistant in Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, where he works to support internal understanding of racial equity principles policies, and practices. He provides executive-level support for Traci O’Neal Ellis, Senior Director for Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Prior to joining the Foundation, Earnest was the production […]
Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation CEO Wendy Guillies Announces Retirement after 22 Years of Leadership and Impact July 7, 2022 Guillies’ leadership set a path aimed at generational impact on entrepreneurs, educators, and students.