Nonoko Sato

Nonoko Sato serves as president & CEO of the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN), one of the largest state associations for nonprofits in the United States. In this role, she leads a talented team that works to strengthen the sector through capacity-building efforts and strategic advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, ensuring nonprofits can effectively serve their communities and advance the public good.

A trusted voice with policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and philanthropic partners, Nonoko has elevated MCN’s profile as a deeply respected thought leader and advocate in building civic trust, advancing justice, and strengthening nonprofit capacity particularly during periods of political polarization and economic uncertainty. She regularly briefs decision-makers and speaks publicly on issues affecting the sector, including the essential role of nonprofits in advancing justice and community well-being, and strengthening civic trust and democratic institutions.

Nonoko was featured by The Chronicle of Philanthropy as a leader mobilizing to protect the social sector and was twice named to Twin Cities Business’s 100 Newsmakers to Watch, recognizing Minnesotans likely to make news and drive change in the year ahead. She is a frequent speaker at conferences, briefings, and convenings and has offered expert analysis on regional and national news programs, webinars, and podcasts.

As an active writer, Nonoko contributes regularly to Nonprofit News, MCN’s quarterly publication where she explores the intersection of nonprofit values, equity, and sector sustainability, urging organizations to remain rooted in community voices and committed to core values amid uncertainty. She has been cited, quoted, and published in outlets including The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Responsive Philanthropy, the Minnesota Star Tribune, MinnPost, and Sahan Journal, among others.

Before becoming President & CEO, Nonoko served as MCN’s Associate Director, where she oversaw operations and programs and launched BenefitsMN, an association health plan expanding access to affordable healthcare for nonprofit employers. Previously, she spent more than a decade as executive director of SMART in San Francisco, advancing educational equity and improving college access and completion outcomes for historically underrepresented students.

Nonoko serves or has served on several boards and advisory bodies, including the National Council of Nonprofits, Governor Walz’s Council on Economic Expansion, Carleton College, Theater Mu, and Rooted to Last, among others. Her leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to equity, cultural humility, and inclusive governance.