Community Foundation Names Its New Leader

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation has named David G. Mengebier as its next Executive Director/CEO, replacing Phil Ellis, who announced his retirement after eight years with the organization.

Mengebier had previously worked for more than 25 years at Consumers Energy, where he is senior vice president and senior policy adviser. Prior to that, Mengebier served for 17 years as the company’s senior vice president of governmental, regulatory and public affairs, and president of the Consumers Energy Foundation.

Mengebier holds a bachelor’s degree in economics, public administration and political science from Michigan State University and a law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He earned an MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan in 2006. 

Mengebier serves on the boards of TraverseConnect, Little Traverse Conservancy and the Great Lakes Water Quality Board.

“My role with the Community Foundation will officially begin in January and, over the next several months, I will be working closely with the staff and Board to ensure a seamless and smooth leadership transition,” said Mengebier.

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation manages $53 million in endowed assets and provides services and support for donors, grants to support nonprofits, and collaborative leadership around community initiatives.