From MCN’s president & CEO, Nonoko Sato:
I wanted to share that the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Board of Directors approved a three-month sabbatical for me this summer. Due to office closures and some previously scheduled work travel, my last day in the office will be June 22, and I will return October 5.
I am deeply grateful to MCN’s board and staff for their encouragement and support as I take this intentional time to rest, reflect, and recharge. This includes gratitude to Kari Aanestad and John Wurm, who will be stepping into interim president and interim vice president roles, respectively, to ensure MCN maintains strong leadership guidance and support throughout this period.
As MCN continues advocating for nonprofit careers that are sustainable and honor the labor of our workers, I recognize that being offered an extended sabbatical is not an opportunity available to most in the nonprofit sector. Rest takes many forms, and access to time for renewal is often shaped by organizational resources, workplace culture, and personal circumstances. I feel fortunate to be able to take this time, and I do not take that privilege for granted.
After I return October 5, I look forward to sharing what I learned from this experience. MCN is also finalizing a sabbatical policy for all staff that we intend to share broadly as a resource for the nonprofit sector. It is our hope that more organizations, leaders, and boards will consider policies and practices that help prevent burnout, support well-being, and retain the talented people our communities rely on every day.
It is an honor to work alongside you in service to our communities. I look forward to reconnecting this fall.
Wishing you a wonderful summer!
Nonoko Sato
MCN President & CEO
Who to contact during Nonoko’s sabbatical
- For matters typically directed to Nonoko’s attention: Kari Aanestad, interim President & CEO
- For public policy and research inquiries: Halla Henderson, Director of Public Policy and Research
- For scheduling requests or assistance connecting with a member of our leadership team: Mark Buenaflor, Sr. Operations Manager
- For media inquiries: Laura Dunford, Deputy Director of Communications
- For all other inquiries: Gretchen Dempewolf, Administrative Coordinator