MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) – Superior Health Foundation (SHF) will soon have a new executive director.
Jim Rajoy, who has served as the nonprofit organization's executive director since its founding on September 1, 2012, will retire in May of this year.
Under his leadership, the foundation has been awarded more than $7.1 million in health-focused grants across the Upper Peninsula and has created dozens of meaningful relationships and collaborations with nonprofit organizations in and around the state, according to SHF. He established relationships and led three highly successful operations. At fundraising events, he raised more than $1.3 million and played a critical role in bringing together like-minded organizations to improve people's health and well-being.
“I have had a wonderful and successful career with the Superior Health Foundation and in philanthropy,” Mr. Rajoy said. He began his career in health care philanthropy in December 2004 as chief giving and endowment planning officer for the then-Marquette General Foundation. “I left with great pride knowing that our foundation has provided much-needed funding to many deserving nonprofits and people across the region.”
“I will miss the countless life-long relationships I have built, my amazing board of directors, and most of all my amazing team. I have been honored to serve as their boss for over 10 years. And I feel humbled.”
Sarah Giles, Chair of the Superior Health Foundation Board of Directors, expressed her gratitude for Mr. Rajoy's tenure.
“I want to thank him for his outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to Upper Peninsula residents at the Superior Health Foundation,” Giles said. “Your dedication to serving our community has been truly inspiring. Your genuine kindness and visionary approach to creating a healthier UP will be with you.” has left a lasting mark on all those who have had the privilege of working with him.
“Your passion for improving the well-being of our communities is the driving force behind the Foundation's many grants, each of which makes a measurable difference in the lives of the people we serve. ” she added. “Your ability to lead and inspire a great team has contributed to the Foundation's success. Your work ethic, integrity, and compassion are at the heart of every grant gala, gala fundraiser, golf outing, board meeting, and more. It was clear: You always took the time to get to know the organizations we serve and tell their stories so we could meet the needs they serve.”
According to a press release from the foundation, Rajoy plans to remain semi-active in the fundraising field after his retirement and has already agreed to support several nonprofit organizations in UP.
LaJoie said she is looking forward to her first summer vacation since she was 16 and plans to spend a lot of time on the golf course, at family camp and at the family cottage on Lake Michigan. The author of three books, he plans to write another “or his two.” He and his wife, Kim, also plan to travel around the world.
The Superior Health Foundation's board of directors is conducting a national search for Mr. Lajoie's successor. A new executive director has been elected and will begin working with the foundation in April.
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