Mindy Milner is an operations coordinator for Real World Initiatives, where she plays a key role in supporting the day-to-day operations and administrative functions of the ProX summer internship program. Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Milner served as assistant director of residence life at Rockhurst University. Milner earned her Bachelor of Arts in communication […]

Michael Carmona is an impact officer – entrepreneurship for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, where he manages a diverse grant portfolio which has a shared goal of fostering financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity for under-resourced communities in the Kansas City region. Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Carmona was a community relations and […]

Meaghan Higgins is a director of operations for Real World Initiatives, where she works to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the ProX program, a key initiative of Real World Initiatives, which includes overseeing key program administrative functions, resource management, program execution, and reporting. Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Higgins was executive director […]

Revisit the progress and pace of this momentous year as the Foundation updated strategic priorities, launched a refreshed grantmaking philosophy, and renewed its commitment to Kansas City.

Hammond’s work focuses on the seamless integration of technology to enhance the Foundation’s efforts to increase access and opportunities for communities locally and nationwide.

Joyce Abbott, educator, veteran, and inspiration behind hit TV series, “Abbott Elementary” addresses educators of color in Kansas City.

Our approach to evaluation We take a rigorous, results-driven approach to evaluation, using both quantitative and qualitative approaches to assess the impact of our initiatives. Evaluation is more than just tracking outcomes; it is also about understanding the processes that lead to success – or areas for improvement. This intentional approach allows us to gain […]

Our approach to learning We believe a culture of continuous learning is essential to identifying innovative ideas that support solutions designed to improve economic mobility for all. Through intentional knowledge sharing, reflection, and capacity-building efforts, we support Foundation associates, our grantees, and other organizations to evolve, adapt, and maximize impact. Learning isn’t just about gathering […]

Our approach to research Research is the foundation of our grantmaking strategy and provides the framework for our evaluation and learning processes. Our research helps ensure that the Foundation’s investments are rooted in a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by the individuals, organizations, and communities we serve. By identifying key areas of […]

Verenice Chavoya-Perez is a senior evaluation and learning officer in Research, Learning, and Evaluation for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, where she operationalizes evaluation and learning-related initiatives. Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation, Chavoya-Perez was a senior associate and staff development manager with Social Policy Research Associates where her work centered on evaluations of policy […]