Leading with Vision, Faith and Purpose
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Honoring Dr. Joan Prince for a decade of leadership that challenged the Foundation to think boldly, lead faithfully, and invest in lasting impact.
When Dr. Joan Prince joined Siebert Lutheran Foundation’s Board of Directors, she brought with her an extraordinary breadth of experience.
In 2012, President Barack Obama nominated her to serve as a United States Public Delegate to the United Nations General Assembly, where she represented the United States on issues including global health, education, and human rights. As Vice Chancellor at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, she spent more than two decades helping students succeed while championing educational access and leadership development. Throughout her career—in healthcare, higher education, philanthropy, and corporate governance— Joan has built a reputation as a collaborative leader who brings people together around a shared purpose.
Those experiences enriched every conversation at Siebert.
As Board Chair, Vice Chair & Secretary, Chair of the Executive Committee, Chair of the Education Grant Committee, Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, mentor, and trusted advisor, Joan helped guide Siebert through a decade of meaningful growth and transition.
Her perspective consistently challenged the board to think beyond immediate needs and focus on how today's decisions could strengthen Lutheran ministries for years to come.
Whether evaluating grant opportunities, shaping strategic priorities, or mentoring fellow board members, Joan encouraged the Foundation to ask bigger questions. How could Siebert invest not only in organizations, but in long-term transformation? How could it strengthen leaders, expand opportunity, and respond to emerging community needs while remaining grounded in its Christ-centered mission?
She brought wisdom to those conversations, but also curiosity. She listened carefully, welcomed different perspectives, and challenged assumptions with grace. Her leadership reflected both strategic discipline and deep faith—qualities that earned the trust and admiration of fellow board members and staff alike.
In April 2026, the Board of Directors recognized Joan's retirement by electing her to the position of Director Emeritus, recognizing not only her decade of dedicated service but also the lasting influence she has had on the Foundation.
Joan’s legacy at the Siebert Lutheran Foundation is measured not only by the decisions she helped shape but by the people she encouraged, the conversations she elevated, and the mission she faithfully advanced.
As the Foundation looks to the future, it does so with greater strength because of Joan’s leadership. Her decade of service leaves a lasting foundation for Siebert to continue living its calling with vision, faith, and purpose.
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