Flint, Michigan, July 2, 2015 – Flint native Shannon Easter White, who founded FUNchitecture a Flint-based design solution firm, has joined the board of trustees of the Flint-based Ruth Mott Foundation.
The Carman-Ainsworth High School graduate and University of Michigan-Master of Architecture alumnus launched her career at PDA Architecture (now inForm studio) and then worked for 10 years with THA Architects Engineers. After the birth of her first child, Shannon started FUNchitecture to focus her talents on working with FUN clients desiring FUNctional design solutions while balancing her new role as a mom.
“I’m thrilled at the opportunity to continue to pay it forward to this community through proactive and innovative grantmaking and programs with the Ruth Mott Foundation,” says White. “My personal beliefs and professional actions over the past 15 years perfectly align with RMF’s charge to advocate, stimulate, and support community vitality and I can’t wait to be an active part in moving this community forward!”
White also serves on numerous non-profit boards and understands that successful communities are the result of involved residents who care about where they live. She will lead the Community Foundation of Greater Flint through their new strategic plan when she takes over as board chair there in early 2016. Shannon currently serves on the governing boards of the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, the American Institute of Architects and the Flint Institute of Arts.
“Shannon’s dynamic personality, high standards and deep experience in this community make her an ideal addition to our Board,” said Maryanne Mott, chair of the Ruth Mott Foundation’s board of trustees.
Ruth Rawlings Mott established the Ruth Mott Foundation as a means of extending the reach of her philanthropy beyond her lifetime with a continued presence in Flint, Michigan.
Her values and conduct inspire the Foundation to be inclusive, welcoming, and egalitarian, to act with kindness and good humor, treat all people with respect and dignity, encourage personal responsibility, practice prevention, and maintain “the long view”.
Since its inception, the Ruth Mott Foundation has invested through direct grants and foundation administered programs nearly $93 million in promoting healthy living, appreciation of the arts and culture and vibrant neighborhoods for the residents of greater Flint.