ECF Names New Executive Director

The Emporia Community Foundation (ECF) has selected Linda Kehres to serve as the new Executive Director, succeeding Becky Nurnberg. Kehres brings wealth of experience from the nonprofit world with an extensive background of growing partnerships and enhancing communities.

Kehres most recently worked as director for the KU Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, providing enrichment opportunities for seniors 50 and better. Prior to that position, she led the efforts of the Topeka based nonprofit, Let’s Help, which was recognized as Topeka’s Nonprofit of Distinction while under her leadership.

A native of Olpe, KS, Kehres earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Emporia State University and an MBA from Baker University. In 2017, Kehres received the Go Topeka Women of Influence Recognition and Rising Star Award. She is also a graduate of Leadership Kansas, a program focused on educating and motivating social, business, and political leaders across the state.

“It’s exciting to come back home. I’m honored to be given the opportunity to join the ECF in support of the wonderful causes that mean so much to the communities they serve,” Kehres said. “I’m looking forward to becoming involved and making a positive impact in the lives of others.”

Jeff Williams, immediate Past President of the ECF and Chair of the Search Committee said, “The Board was very pleased by the number of applications received for the ECF Executive Director position and the quality of the candidates who applied.  After several rounds of interviews, Linda Kehres was chosen by the Board as the candidate to continue the excellent work that Becky Nurnberg has done as the ECF Executive Director.  The Board is eagerly looking forward to working with Linda Kehres in the continued growth of the ECF in meeting the needs of the area we serve.

Kehres succeeds Becky Nurnberg, who will retire March 29 after seven years as Executive Director of the ECF. “My time with the ECF has been challenging, yet rewarding,” said Nunberg. “It’s been exciting to see the growth of the ECF, supporting various projects and programs in our community. Linda Kehres will no doubt guide the foundation to new levels in the future.”

The Emporia Community Foundation has served the Emporia/Lyon County area and the surrounding counties for the past 29 years with currently over 375 individual funds.  The ECF has assets totaling over $42 million and provides funding for grants, scholarships, Match Day, and various programs in our community with over $4.2 million awarded in 2023.