A Heart for Community: Remembering Dr. Malcolm “Mack” Peel

On September 9, 2025, Dr. Malcolm Peel passed away in Oberlin, Ohio at age 89. Malcolm served as the Community Foundation’s first Executive Director, leading the organization from 1989 to 1994. 

Before joining the Community Foundation, Malcolm—known to many as Mack – taught in Coe College’s philosophy and religion department and served as the National Endowment Director for the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library.  

When he began his tenure with the Community Foundation, Malcolm inherited the goal of raising $450,000 in three years. Within just six months, he surpassed that goal, securing more than $1 million. Over the next several years, he formalized a grantmaking process, established a Nonprofit Resource Center, and guided the organization’s transition to a public foundation – laying the groundwork for becoming a powerful asset for Linn County.  

Last year, as the Community Foundation celebrated its 75th anniversary, Malcolm reflected on his time with the organization:  

“Someone taught me once, that along our way in life, if we have an opportunity to speak a kind word, or extend a helping hand, or even contribute to a good cause, do these things now, because we shall not pass this way again,” he said. “And I’ve always remembered that, so I gave it my whole heart and soul.”