Barbara Rankin, President of the Board of Trustees of the Summit Foundation, has announced that Jeanne Bistranin, the Executive Director of the Foundation, will be retiring effective January 31, 2025. 

For almost ten years, Jeanne has been the driving force behind the Summit Foundation’s community impact, leading with practicality, action, and an unwavering commitment to our community. 

“Jeanne has exemplified the true meaning of service, working tirelessly to support our mission and ensuring that our values of compassion, collaboration, and community are at the forefront of everything we do. Her strategic vision and action-oriented approach have been instrumental in advancing our initiatives and making a tangible difference in Summit County and beyond,” said Rankin.   

Under Bistranin’s leadership, the Foundation has grown exponentially, almost doubling the total annual financial support that it provides to the community, from $2.1 million in 2015 to over $4 million this year, positively impacting countless lives. The number of Donor Advised and Scholarship Funds at the Foundation has also more than doubled, from 37 funds in 2015 to almost 80 funds now, leveraging $2 million or more in annual support for the community and encouraging a spirit of giving that will last for generations to come. 

In 2015, the year Bistranin started with the Foundation, the cumulative support for the community was $23 million, and this year the cumulative is now $53 million. Bistranin led with innovation and worked with the community to create and execute many Special Initiatives including the Bright Futures Fund, Mountain Scholars, Peak Health Alliance, Project Thrive, Theatre Vivo, Building Hope, and more.     

“It has been my honor to be the Executive Director of the Summit Foundation and serve the community for almost ten years. This year, looking back during our 40-year anniversary, it was humbling to realize the impact that so many people have had on the Foundation and our community,” said Bistranin. “We are well poised to continue to escalate our impact in the community through our new Bright Futures Fund and beyond. We have a strong team of staff and Board members, with so much knowledge and dedication to our community who will continue this strong work, with the continued support of our generous donors. I honor and thank all of you who love this community.” 

The search for a new Executive Director will begin soon, and further information will be posted at summitfoundation.org