A Career of Service: Jean Brenneman Prepares for Retirement
After nearly two decades at the Community Foundation, Jean Brenneman is preparing for the next chapter of life. Her tenure has been marked by tremendous growth, community resilience, and a steadfast commitment to financial stewardship. Before her retirement begins on May 5, 2025, we asked Jean to reflect on her time as Chief Financial Officer.
Q: You joined the Community Foundation in 2007. What was the organization like then?
A: The organization had six employees and I was the only finance team member. The year I started, William Quarton passed away and left $35 million to the Community Foundation. It remains the largest gift in our history and really kickstarted a period of growth for the organization. Today, the organization has 21 employees, including five people on the finance team overseeing finances and operations.
Q: What are some of your fondest memories from your time here?
A: What I like about the Community Foundation is the people I work with and the community I work for. Over the years, I have formed deep connections, both within the organization and throughout the community. It has made my work all the more fulfilling.
Q: You managed the Community Foundation’s finances through a period of incredible growth. What are you most proud of in the last 18 years?
A: I’m proud of the team we have here—a group of people who not only care about their work but also about each other.
Seeing the tangible impact of our work is always rewarding, especially in times of crisis like the 2008 flood and the 2020 derecho. I also love being out in the community and seeing signs or programs that say, “Supported by the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation.” It’s a reminder of the real difference we’re making.
On the finance side, I’m proud to have helped establish and grow the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) investment pool. This helped align investments with the Community Foundation’s values. I am also proud of our work in helping to establish the award-winning MICRO program in 2015 which continues to provide financial support for local small businesses.
Q: What’s next for you?
A: I’m looking forward to more time for travel, gardening, and playing pickleball. I will also be working part-time for a company that provides outsourced accounting services for nonprofit organizations.
Q: As part of the Community Foundation’s leadership, you’ve helped set the organization up for success. What are your hopes for the organization and the community as you depart?
A: I truly hope that the Community Foundation continues to contribute toward a vibrant and inclusive Linn County where all people thrive. I hope that donors remain generous, and the financial markets do well so that the Community Foundation can increase its support of the amazing work of Linn County’s nonprofit organizations.