In Loving Memory of Janine Lee

In Loving Memory of Janine Lee

2/29/2024
This morning, I had the privilege of welcoming the NC Network of Grantmakers community to our Annual Meeting and conference.

But, I had to deliver the difficult news that Janine Lee, president of Philanthropy Southeast, had passed away.
 
There was an audible gasp in the room, because the impact that Janine had in her remarkable career cannot be overstated.

She was a friend and mentor to so many of us. Her vision for what is possible in the philanthropic sector drove change in organizations throughout the South and beyond. She pushed us to ask tough questions, created spaces for learning and fellowship, and developed leaders that will continue to live her considerable legacy.

I’m grateful to have known her and feel privileged to have been able to learn from her. I am sending love to her family and to her wonderful colleagues at Philanthropy Southeast.

It is my sincere hope that we’ll be able to honor Janine in our drive toward equity and a philanthropic sector that echoes her warmth, grace, and leadership.

Sarah Mann Willcox
Executive Director, North Carolina Network of Grantmakers
 
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