Walton Family Foundation names Kyle Peterson as new executive director
by June 15, 2016 9:23 am 427 views
The Walton Family Foundation has named Kyle Peterson as its new executive director as long-time director Buddy Philpot moves to another role with Walton Enterprises.
“Peterson brings global nonprofit and private sector expertise, and he will lead the foundation as we continue to focus on addressing important social issues through our philanthropy. Kyle is currently a managing partner and board member of FSG (formerly Foundation Strategy Group), a nonprofit consulting firm that serves the social sector,” noted Carrie Walton Penner, board chair for the Foundation.
She described Peterson as innovative, entrepreneurial and idea-driven.
“Kyle shares the principles that have guided our work for nearly 30 years – a focus on individual empowerment and delivering long-lasting results. His fresh thinking and cross sector experience will lead the foundation as we further our grantmaking and our impact,” she said.
He begins in September and will be the third person to hold the position in foundation history. Penner said he will build on momentum that includes impressive results, expert staff and new strategic plans in each program area. He follows the 15-year tenure of Philpot as executive director. Philpot announced last year his plans to move to a role at Walton Enterprises. He committed to staying with the foundation until a new executive director was named.
Earlier this year, the Foundation announced grant plans for the next five years that support its long-term vision of expanding educational opportunity for all children, conserving oceans and rivers; and giving back in their home region where Sam and Helen Walton first found opportunity.
“Just as we’ve challenged our grantees and partners to improve continually, we’ve also challenged ourselves to think about how, as a family, we can support the work of the foundation toward these big goals. This includes our new streamlined approach to governance that will continue to engage several generations of family members,” Penner said.