Honoring Our Groundbreaking Leader for Her
Quarter-Century of Service
After two dozen phenomenal years at the Ms. Foundation for Women, our beloved leader, Sara K. Gould is moving on. We want to honor Sara's extraordinary legacy and applaud all she has done to prepare the Foundation for an exciting future.
Please honor Sara's legacy to change the world for women, girls and their communities by supporting the Ms. Foundation today.
|
A Message From Sara
Dearest Friends and Colleagues:
Thank you so very much for the amazing gift of these heartfelt expressions of appreciation and love. Your sentiments mean so much to me in my last weeks at the Foundation.
And I say: Right Back at You! I am so deeply grateful for your partnership and your friendship over so many years and in so many different situations. I am deeply honored to be a part of this community, and I applaud all of the work that you do every day to move the women’s and social justice movements forward!
Love, Sara
|

Since joining the Ms. Foundation in 1986, Sara has made transformational contributions to the field of social justice philanthropy. Her remarkable ability to see the connections between actions and people has made Sara a great CEO, and a cherished mentor to the thousands of women connected to the Ms. Foundation, and to the broader fields of philanthropy and activism.
-- Cathy Raphael, Chair, Board of Directors, Ms. Foundation for Women
Sara: You wore so many hats at the Foundation and you wore them all so well. Cheerleader, brainstormer, fundraiser, mother, strategist, traveler, public speaker, leader, sister, negotiator, storyteller and friend.
-- Anne Delaney, Long-time supporter and former Board member, Ms. Foundation
What I love about Sara Gould: You are unwavering in your commitment. You are indefatigable. You listen. You respect. You celebrate the achievement of others. Your knowledge is unparalleled. You rock as a feminist, leader, teacher, colleague and friend!
-- Liz Bremner, Treasurer, Board of Directors, Ms. Foundation
Sara, It has been an honour to serve on the Board while you were President, leader, visionary and inspiration to us all. And you leave an organization that has grown, matured and is ready and solid enough to face new challenges! Thank you!
-- Kathleen Stephansen, Board member, Ms. Foundation
Dearest Sara,
I will miss your leadership so much. You are the very definition of trust, from your devotion to inclusiveness and good judgment in your own role to your ability to listen and know that people who are experiencing a problem are probably more expert in it than the experts. You became a bridge of trust between some of the least powerful in this country and those with the power to help change that imbalance -- and you did so with equal kindness on both sides of this wide river.
It's a truism that the best leaders are those who have something else they want to do, and now Ms. must let you move on. But for all of us who love and are part of the work of the Ms. Foundation, you will always be a part of it, past, present and future.
-- Gloria Steinem, feminist organizer, writer, Ms. Foundation co-founder
Sara combines the spark of strategic insight with the commitment to justice for all. She brings such energy and optimism to every endeavor she embraces. She is an organizational marvel and a personal joy.
-- Heather Booth, President, Midwest Academy
Thank you a lot for you such important work!
-- Olga Gvozdetska
Sara has demonstrated all the characteristics of a great leader: compassion, humor, affection, critical and analytical thinking, mentoring, mothering, collaboration, commitment, loyalty, and sisterhood..all in one small package! Congratulations!
-- Donna Hall, Women Donors Network
Sara, I am very excited about this new chapter in your life. When I think of the Ms. Foundation, I think of your unwavering, grounded leadership. PeaceKeeper is always here if we can support your work. I am sending you all of my very best wishes. Jody
-- Jody R. Weiss, PeaceKeeper Cause-Metics
Sara is the epitome of a leader - she is intelligent, a strategist, and a visionary. Moreover, Sara cares about the women she works with and the women she works on behalf of. She always made time to check in and mentor emerging leaders. Thank you.
-- Nicole E. Cozier, Washington Area Women's Foundation
Dear Sara, Thank you for your steady, yet visionary, leadership of the women's funding movement. Good luck in your further life adventures. I hope our paths will cross.
-- Jane Ransom, CEO, Girl Scouts in the Heart of PA
Bien chère Sara: Je suis Cordinatric enationale du Forum Congolais des femmes rurales en RDCongo. Je reçois de vos vouvelles sur vos actions par la fondation. souhaiteons, bon travail, felicition et remerciont beaucoup, contunuez vos bienfait
-- Forum congolais des femmes rurales, ONGD des Femmes
Thank you
-- Donalee
To Sara,
You will be missed by all and ESPECIALLY by me!!! I have been blessed to know you, and I am forever in awe of you.
Good luck in your next venture and I hope we can stay in touch.
Much love,
Bonnie Schaefer
-- Bonnie Schaefer
Sara, What a journey on behalf of women's rights and quite a legacy for a midwesterner! Thank you for your support of women's programs at the local and national level,specifically Fort Wayne Women's Bureau and Wider Opportunities for Women, and for me.
-- Harriet Miller, Former ED Fort Wayne Women's Bureau
Sara K Gould has done a lot to promote the rights of women at the grassroot level, her work has helped to give better perspective of the issues affecting women, especially those who are in situations where they can't fight for themselves. Thank you Sara.
-- Effanga, REACH WOMEN
Sara: Always insightful, incisive, and gracious, thank you for the opportunity to work with you. Here's to a shared future of continued work to make the lives of women and girls the best they can be.
-- Hanh Cao Yu, Friend
Walking softly while carrying a big mission, Sara never failed to lead by example and by believing in those around her.
-- Laura Sillerman, Friend
Sara, you have great depth and compassion. You also exemplify the values that create inclusive leadership. This combination of personal qualities and deep-rooted values, make you so special. I'm proud to count you as a friend and colleague.
-- Theresa Fay-Bustillos, Friend and Donor
From Cheyenne Country -- we thank you Sara for your support of Native Action! You got it -- our intergenerational work to build young girls' leadership on the Indian Reservations. Best wishes always!
-- Gail Small, Native Action Director
Sara, we only met briefly in Cairo last year, but I remember thinking, "Wow, I get to sit next to the President of the Ms. Foundation and she's so nice!" You are a great role model as a powerful woman. Thank you for the support Ms. has provided GIFT.
-- Priscilla Hung, GIFT
Sara, you have been, for me, a fine and true example of a woman who demonstrates extraordinary leadership, fine character and an ability to be your own sweet self yourself in all circumstances. I am privileged to be your friend. With love, Jean
-- Jean Beard, Friend and Supporter
Your achievements are qualitative and impact justice throughout the world. Justice and human rights are values that are the aim of international agencies. This will befit scholars and researchers.
-- Prof. Ishaq Y. al-Qutub, President of Arab Student Aid International
Sara, You are an amazing woman, leader, role model and humanitarian. I feel so blessed to have gotten to know you and to have worked with you. I look forward to a wonderful future and more collaborations. You are the best. With Love and Admiration, Lauren
-- Lauren Embrey, Ms. Foundation Board Member
I have known Sara for nearly three decades and she has been a quality leader in all her pursuits. Sara's leadership has impacted the women's movement, economic development and a host of other social causes. She is to be admired and honored.
-- Jack Litzenberg, Friend
Dear Sara: It was an honor to serve as a Board member at Ms, while you were president and I also shared good moments and reflections when we both were Board members at WFN. All your great work inspired me. Thanks also for being my friend.
-- Emilienne de Leon, Colleague and friend
I have known Sara for nearly 40 years and she has always been a leader! Anyone who knows Sara as a friend and/or colleague knows what a talented, warm, and super-smart person she is. I wish her the very, very best in this new chapter. xoxo
-- Mindy Fried, Friend
I'm bummed that I didn't get to work more closely with Sara, but whenever we came into contact she was warm, smart, visionary and had so much to offer to making the world a better place. I hope our paths cross again.
-- Sujatha Jesudason, Executive Director, Generations Ahead
When I first came into contact with the Ms. Foundation in 1995, Sara was there with a calmness and caring that helped us grow. It's a joy to see that the foundation is continuing with a strengthened committment to girls and women. Thanks, Sara.
-- Andrea R. Johnston, President, Girls Speak Out
I try to imagine life without Sara at the Ms. Foundation; it is not easy. She was always there, with her calm voice, her warm smile and her vast knowledge of the details of women's lives and what it would take to change them. I will miss her.
-- Rita Henley Jensen, Friend and colleague
Hello Ms. Sara: I just became an online supporter of the Ms. Foundation so I've not had a chance to really get to know you. I do, however, wish you well in all that you do in the future.
-- Gloria Smith, Veterans of Hope Project
Sara, Sara Gould...I have to tell you a few things that I may have never mentioned...I remember exactly when I met you and that I was anticipating meeting you although I had no idea really who you were or who I was in the realm of things...I was definitely a rookie in the realm of women in development and somehow I knew that you were not...you were already beyond rookiedom...it was a meeting at a conference center in the south bay where the WEDI's were gathering for peer learning and coaching and introductions and new ideas. What a fine beginning for my professional journey and how I have enjoyed our times together both professionally and as friends. I always smile when I think of you, Sara. Onward and upward!
-- Sheilah Rogers, Friend and colleague
Sara, when I think about your leadership here's what comes to mind: your passion and pragmatism, a good friend and colleague to many, willingness to take on challenges without drama and with an eye on the prize. It's been great to work with you.
-- Jan Jaffe, Senior Director, Ford Foundation
Sara has been a great supporter of Women's Opportunity and Resource Development Inc and Montana Women Vote. We appreciate her commitment to funding innovative programs for women and girls in rural areas.
-- Terry Kendrick, Montana Women Vote
Without Sara's visionary leadership and the support of Ms., our Pennsylvania coalition might not have survived. Sara understands that social change doesn't trickle down: it grows up from local and state-level organizing. We'll miss you, Sara. Thank you!
-- Susan Frietsche, Pennsylvanians for Choice
Sarah - you are a truly inspirational social change leader! I have always admired your warmth, openness and readiness to cultivate a new generation of leaders. The women's funding world will miss you deeply.
-- Clare Winterton, Executive Director, International Museum of Women
Sara Gould is one of the most inspiring, savvy, humane leaders in the progressive movement today. She has made such a giant contribution to building the women's movement and the broader social justice movement --always with humor, grace, and soulfulness!
-- Deepak Bhargava, Friend and Collaborator
Deep Bow to someone I don't know very well or for very long, but has never responded to any request for consultation or sistah support with anything other than, "What can I do to help?." I thank you for being you.
--
Terry Greenblatt, Executive Director and CEO Urgent Action Fund
I've had the honor of working with Sara for more than 20 years. She is a terrific colleague and leader -- always making time to help others move the ball forward. With warm best wishes for the next stage!
--
Linda Tarr-Whelan, Colleague
Sara Gould is one of us, forever.
--
Elaine Maly, Women's Fund of Greater Milwaukee
Kindness. Mindfulness. Commitment to social justice and to openness and inclusion in pursuing social justice. Thank you, Sara, for being such an exemplary leader, comrade, and friend.
--
David Scobey, Friend
Dearest Sara: To lead by example takes self-awareness, respect for the experiences of others and and a willingness above all else to connect. You've led Ms, and your life, in that spirit and it's been transformative.
--
Dorothy Q. Thomas, Ms. Foundation Board Member
Sara, congratulations and best wishes for continued success as you journey to new endeavors.
Your leadership and commitment to Ms. Foundation is unmatched and has made a wonderful addition to Ms.'s long legacy and history. The world awaits you!
-- Barbara A. McKinzie, 27th International President, Alpha Kappa Alpha
Thank you for your warmth, leadership, and vision. I'm sure your new adventures bring just as many exciting discoveries as your son is making at school!
--
Miriam Yeung, Executive Director, National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum
Sara, you are a treasured colleague and friend who has taught me much over many years. You lead from your heart, with honesty, compassion, grace and humility. We'll miss your leadership at Ms but look forward to your continued leadership in the world!
--
Sandra Mikush, Friend and colleague
Sara's career has been an inspiration, so directed and focused; deeply dedicated to women's issues and social and economic justice for all. Her friendship sustains me.
Much love and congratulations.
-- Sue Landers, Friend
Sara, your wonderful action is appreciated everywhere, and helps ensure that the future looks bright for all people in this world. Take courage, we are at your side helping people in need. We applaud your extraordinary legacy.
-- M'mony Ngabo M., CEIFD/SUD KIVU
The Women's Economic Development Institutes were ground-breaking, inspiring events and started us on our path of engaging ourselves and the women we serve in community economic development policy and action. Sara led the way!
--
Eloise Vitelli, friend and colleague
Sara, you epitomize the accessible leader. Every time I have been in your company you have been deeply engaged - whether with other executive leaders, staff, or volunteers. Thank you for making others feel important and heard. You will be deeply missed!
-- Cynthia Schmae, Women's Funding Network
Sara, you are a strong, passionate, strategic leader who always shows kindness and compassion. You gave so much of your wisdom to Ms. and invaluable support/friendship to all organizations and communities you worked with. You are a true leader and inspiration!
--
Liz Abzug, Bella Abzug Leadership Institute
Sara - It has been an honor and a privilege working with you. You have brought vision and leadership to the social justice women's movement. And you have done so with a warmth and passion that sparks others to join in the struggle. Best wishes!
-- Lenora M. Lapidus, Director, ACLU Women's Rights Project
Sara, your long-term support – and in so many forms!!! – will long be remembered. But possibly even more memorable, your tap dancing. Continue to share that skill. Much love and best wishes.
--
Linda Burnham
Sara Gould's leadership and expertise on a wide range of women's issues have been invaluable resources for the National Women's Law Center. In the course of NWLC's nearly 30-year long relationship with the Ms.
Foundation for Women, our time working with Sara has been especially rewarding and empowering. With Sara's guidance and Ms. Foundation's support we have achieved tremendous advancements for women in schools, in the workforce, in health care, and in economic security.
Sara, from all of us at the National Women's Law Center: Thank you for your drive and commitment to bettering women's lives. It has been wonderful to work with you, and we wish you the best as you pursue your exciting new position at the Foundation Center.
--
Duffy Campbell and
Marcia Greenberger, Co-Presidents of the National Women's Law Center
From one Sara to another, I was thrilled to meet you at the last moment. Here’s to great women and I will support!
-- Cheers,
Sara Lovett
Sara- I feel honored that I’ve had the opportunity to get to know you. I appreciate your dedication and passion for women and girls. From PJ parties in New Mexico to celebrating women at Vday in New Orleans—I cherish the time I’ve gotten to spend with you. You are a mentor, a teacher and a confidant.
-- Warm regards,
Amy Zucchero
Sara – I’ve always loved you and always been proud of you, so I didn’t think that could get any greater. For me you are a role model, a pillar of strength. You have wisdom and grace. You listen and you guide without me even knowing it has happened. I am so fortunate to have you as a sister. After tonight I realize you have been the exact same thing for the Foundation, and through the Foundation, you have been that for women and girls around the globe. Thank you for all that you are.
-- Love,
Criss
Sara – humanity should be your middle name. In all the ways our lives and work have touched, you are always glowing with the best of what it is to be human – compassionate, deeply caring, with a real depth of understanding of how the world works and what it will take to change it. I’m proud to be your sister and comrade always.
-- Love,
Susan (Freundlich)
Dear Sister of the Beautiful Fall Colors, I love you, love how you live your work at Ms., love how you love your family and friends, love how you love women, and love your tenacious and fierce faith in us—no matter what. You and your legacy will inspire on into herstory. With deepest appreciation, thanks and respect,
-- “E.” (
Elizabeth Seja Min)
Cheers, Sara, on your next adventure! You will always remain a trusted and deeply respected colleague and a sister working mom, with a child recently out of the nest.
-- Nancy Biberman, Executive Director, WHEDco
Sara, thank you so much for all you've done for the Ms. Foundation and the women's movement. Best wishes for success and lots of fun in all your new adventures.
-- Linda Meric, 9to5, National Association of Working Women
Each time I reached out to you, you were there as a trusted colleague and friend. I am so excited for you and you leave such a powerful legacy at the Ms. Foundation! Thank you for your leadership and mentorship.
-- Janine Lee, Colleague and friend in philanthropy
What a gift you have been to women and girls everywhere. Your leadership is an example I hope many follow. What a privilege to know you.
-- Patrice King Brickman, Friend
Sara, it's been wonderful working with you all these years. I am grateful for your graceful leadership of the Ms. Foundation, your openness and your generosity of spirit. Ms. will miss you, and I fully intend that we will stay in touch.
-- Polly Howells, Supporter
It has been a great pleasure to watch you develop the amazing work you have done from the economic collaborative to Ms. Foundation directorship. Your vision and perseverance will take you into the future and I look forward to seeing it! love you
-- Charlotte Bunch, Friend and Colleague
How fortunate for me to have been employed at the Ms. Foundation for Women when Sara Gould joined the staff in 1986. What a wonderful experience it was to work with her for 24 years and see her move the Foundation's work forward to include her vision of what the world could be for women, children and men.
How excited I am to be able to wish her well as she brings her skills and knowledge to the Foundation Center as the Atlantic Senior Fellow.
Sara, I am sure there are many in the world whose lives you have touched in many positive ways that would join me in saying congratulations on your past accomplishments and wish you much success in your future endeavors.
Hugs,
-- Carol Yesalonis, Former Staff Member, Ms. Foundation
Sara is such a great person. She is kind, sensitive, bright, and modest. I have known her since mid-1980 when she helped strengthen AIWA organizationally and financially.
She is the epitome of what a great philanthropic partner can be. Always supportive. Fully understands the challenges of running a nonprofit organization. No preconceived notion. Always listening. That's how she has been with AIWA.
Although AIWA and I will miss her departure from the Ms. Foundation very much. I am sure her legacy and impact will resonate in every walk of life she has touched during her tenure at Ms.
Thank you, Sara,
-- Young Shin, Executive Director, Asian Immigrant Women Advocates
Although I worked for Sara, I never felt less than; underneath our mutual "okee dokees" was a fierce commitment in service of the cause. Sara never failed to surprise and delight: Whether calling me out (appropriately so), tolerating my poor navigation skills, driving me crazy with details, reassuring me during long meetings, keeping at long-term change until it is accomplished, teaching me to memorize the spelling of people’s names, or making big decisions too quickly that turn out to be wise choices. Most importantly in these struggles, Sara engendered humor. And dancing.
We were lucky to work with her, and I plan on continuing to have that kind of luck!
-- Caroline Hotaling, Ms. Foundation for Women
Sara is a true friend and a leader in the classic sense that people follow her because we trust, love and respect her. Can't wait to see what you tackle next sister!
-- Bill Lipton, Friend
Sara Gould comes as close as any social justice advocate I have worked with to walking the walk, applying her values to everything she does. She's had a magnificent run at Ms. -- I can't wait to see what's next!
-- Gara LaMarche, President, The Atlantic Philanthropies
I first met Sara in 1989 when I was starting a women's microenterprise organization in Michigan. I was very young and green, and Sara took me seriously, coached me and helped me build my confidence. Over the next 7 years as I attended the Ms. Foundation's Economic Development Institute, I got to know Sara better and respect her even more.
One of the side benefits of leaving the microenterprise field and joining the women's funding field is that I was able to continue to see Sara at various Women's Funding Network events. I have continued to use her as a mentor, admire her from afar, and be impressed with her ability to communicate the critical importance of our work and build an array of allies. I consider her a dear friend and wish her the best in her new adventure.
-- With great admiration, LeAnne Moss
Sophisticated strategic sensibility; sense of humor in maneuvering challenges and honoring celebrations; spunk, sprinkled with stubbornness, and sincerity and compassion for the women and girls you have served. With love and admiration.
-- Gayle Peterson Senior Partner, Headwaters
I met you exploring collaboratives and joined both the economic and the girls and then went on to collaborate with others. You, dear Sara are so inspirational and have changed our world. xxx Lindsay
-- Lindsey Shea, Fan, Former Board Member and Collaborator
Since we first met at the Tuft's Institute and then worked on the Women's Institute, I have always thought of you as synonymous with the Ms Foundation. You have been a great leader advocating for women and economic development. All my best wishes!
-- Chris Clamp, Southern New Hampshire University
Dearest Sara,
I cannot tell you how much your support and example and leadership have meant to me over the years. We have been friends since I first came to visit you as a Program Associate in 1988, when you were running the Economic Development Institute at the Ms. Foundation...In 1995, you invited me to join the Ms. Foundation delegation to the Beijing Conference -- what a life changing experience and one that took me to the life work that I have pursued for 14 years at the Global Fund for Women.
Read the full tribute on our blog.
-- Kavita N. Ramdas, Senior Advisor (President and CEO 1996-2010), Global Fund for Women
Dear Sara:
I've put this off a bit as I so quickly get choked up just thinking about writing this. First there is the story of your professional trajectory. I remember being at an event twenty-some years ago when Marie introduced you as "the" authority on economic development. So from the very beginning, I respected what you contributed to a discussion.
Read the full tribute on our blog.
-- Katie Grover, Immediate past Chair of the Board of Trustees
If there is a more thoughtful, generous, wise and passionate leader in philanthropy, I have not met that person in my 25 years in the field. Sara will continue to inspire us all to continue the good fight.
-- Henry Allen, Friend and Colleague
Sara, You have done so many amazing things over the years, it’s hard to choose which one to highlight. But my favorite from years ago is the creation of the Ms. Foundation Institute on Women and Economic Development in 1988. Early that summer, on Thompson Island in Boston Harbor, you gathered scores of the most caring and creative women imaginable, women with such energy and vision I’m sure the Island rose 10 feet over the weekend. And for years thereafter the Ms. Institute brought together women leaders in community and economic development, to learn skills and gain knowledge, of course, but more importantly to build a movement. Your leadership combines a gentle soul with a determined spirit and vision. Thank you for all you’ve done and my best wishes for what’s to come.
-- Richard Schramm, Long-time Friend and Colleague in Community Economic Development
Your substantive work and vision, abiding wisdom and compassion, leave me speechless. And inspired. Everyday I think of you, remember what matters, and commit myself and efforts to what it does. Love,
-- Liz Gould, Sister
Sara,
This page is devoted to your many professional accomplishments, all deserved. But regardless of where you work, you will remain a leading feminist thinker and supporter of the Ms. Foundation. On the first day I come to work and you’re not here, the Sara that I will miss is the leader who eats lunch in the break-room, and talks about Jacob, novels and copper-colored Aerosoles shoes. Your legacy is in your groundbreaking work as a transformative thinker and also in the down-to-earth, warm environment you’ve created here with your positive energy. Many thanks. Warmly,
-- Irene Xanthoudakis, Ms. Foundation Staff Member
Sara: Thank you for decades of devotion to your work and the women who make it important. As a leader, mother, mover, shaker and swimmer who is humble and kind, you set a fine example for the field and your staff. Best wishes in your next adventure.
-- Rob Johnston, Ms. Foundation Staff Member, Fellow Mets Fan
Oh Sara, I will never forget those early early days at the Foundation, when you, stationed in the copying room, created an pioneering Economic Development Project that led to the Ms. Foundation and your becoming world leaders on women’s economic development. I was so grateful to stand there in your shadow, helping to raise money for that amazing work. I loved you then, I love you now, for what an incredibly creative and funny and brilliant and compassionate person you are, and what a devoted friend. I send deepest gratitude and wish you all the very best in your new and exciting next great adventure.
-- Angela Bonavoglia, Former Director of Development, Ms. Foundation for Women
I am lucky to have overlapped with Sara and count on crossing paths in future lives of working to bring change. She is an open and honest leader. She introduces us to her friends. She wears sensible shoes. She laughs frequently. And she will be missed!
-- Sunny Daly, Colleague at the Ms. Foundation for Women
Sara and I worked together to operationalize the Women's Economic Development program. I worked for the Foundation for 4 years, traveling all over the country from my base in West Virginia. I count Sara as a visionary and a friend. I wish her well.
-- Christine Weiss Daugherty, Friend
Dear Sara, It has been a pleasure knowing and working with you. Your friendship has meant a lot to me. We will have to continue to keep in touch by lunching at Felidia. I wish you the best on your new endeavor. Sincerely,
-- Janet Prindle, Friend and Supporter
Dear Sara: as your colleague for just three years, we share memories from only a slice of the time that you've been doing such incredible work at the Ms. Foundation for Women. My respect and love for you, though, is far greater than three years worth. This is no surprise, because everything you’ve done, led us to do, and taught us how to continue in your absence has more heart, laughter, and genuine commitment crammed in it than I thought possible. Thank you, and so many good wishes in your next adventure.
-- Leslie MacKrell, colleague, Ms. Foundation for Women
Sara, it has been a real pleasure to work with you for the last 8 years. I learned a lot from you and hope I was helpful to you in some way. Ms has been very fortunate to have your leadership all these years. All the best to you in your new role.
-- Sara E. Melendez, Board Member
Sara--How does it feel to have so many love and admire you? Congratulations on deserving all the accolades. And many thanks, too, for having had and continuing to have a strong and positive impact on the lives of so many women and girls. xo
-- Eve Ellis, Board Member, Ms. Foundation
Dearest Sara - Thank you for always "walking your talk" with such integrity and grace. I've learned so much from you - most importantly, how one can lead so powerfully, with love. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
-- Phoebe Eng, Board Member and Colleague
Congratulations, Sara. You leave a tremendous legacy, one of vision, impact and grace that has benefited women across the country. I join others who will miss you terribly, but are excited for you and confident in the Ms. Foundation's future because of your leadership.
-- Joan Kuriansky, Colleague, Executive Director, WOW
Sara, it has been such a privilege to work with you these past 2 years. Your passion, leadership and thoughtfulness are really inspirational, and aspirational. I'm delighted that we'll continue to cross paths. Warmly, Ashley
-- Ashley Blanchard, Board Member, Ms. Foundation
Thank you Sara for being a leader who turns dreams and vision into reality. You have advanced the Ms Foundation for Women and the communities it serves closer to the promise and ideals of America.
-- Rene R, Colleague and Friend
Sara you are an extraordinary leader, colleague, feminist, and friend. Your generosity of spirit, strategic mind, and compassionate heart make you one powerful woman. I am blessed to have worked with you over these many years and even more blessed to call you my friend. Love Katherine.
-- Katherine Acey, Executive Director of Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice
To Sara: what a super leader of Ms., and a pleasure for me to meet with regarding Sophia’s advocacy grants. Cheers to your new work and two month sabbatical with some cooking a la Willa Cather’s Tables.
-- Lucia Woods Lindley, Long-time friend and Sophia Fund donor
When I think of strong, committed, smart, loving women, I think of Sara Gould. It has been a great personal and professional pleasure to have known and worked with her for so many years. Best wishes and thanks for the great memories!
-- Agnes Noonan, WESST
Dearest Sara,
Wishing you the strongest of wings as you lift off into new worlds -- the same strong wings you gave to countless women and their causes for a quarter of a century. The next 25 years belong to you -- thank you for a job done superlatively! Carol
-- Carol Jenkins, Former Ms. Foundation Board Member
To my dear friend Sara….thank you for your visionary and compassionate leadership for all these years, thank you for your reliable friendship and mutual strategizing, and thank you for caring deeply about justice.
Please know you have impacted the field in so many ways: shaping early economic development work that placed women and communities at the center, conceptualizing early funder collaboratives in order to leverage more resources for women and girls, growing the Ms. Foundation to new levels of financial security and impact…to name a few.
I will miss you in the women's funds family…and know we will find many other interesting things to do together.
-- Judy Patrick, President and CEO, Women’s Foundation of California
Dear Sara,
I join with so many others in expressing my enormous admiration and gratitude for your leadership and friendship over the past nearly 25 years. I have learned so much from you always, and I look forward to all that is yet to come.
-- Nancy Meyer, Friend and Supporter
Thanks for helping create a world where girls and women can be powerful and can gain the resources they need to control their own lives and make the world a better place for others.
-- Molly Mead, Colleague
Dearest Sara,
Every day with you at the Ms. Foundation for Women has been a gift - of trust, of growth, of humor, and of true belief in a world full of possibility. It has been nothing less than a privilege to work with and learn from you over the past three years. I will continue to live the lessons you've shared and can only hope to walk the talk with the grace, humility and integrity that you do. Thank you and so much love.
-- Sangeeta Budhiraja, Colleague, Ms. Foundation for Women
Thank you so much, Sara, for so freely sharing your knowledge, your vast experience, you values, and your personal life with all of us who are fortunate to know you and who worked closely with you. We learned a great deal from you, and you were always open to learn from us. You led with kindness and inner strength. I will admire you always.
-- Adriana Londono, Colleague, Ms. Foundation for Women
Congratulations on your remarkable work and leadership. I particularly appreciate your ability to engage those in power and listen carefully and respect the grassroots and know that each is critical to a strong movement for women and girls.
-- Tamara Kreinin, friend and ED of Women, UNFoundation
Dear Sara, your combination of humility and audacity are a joy and an inspiration to me. I am grateful to have worked with you and look forward to our paths crossing down the road!
--
Mike Allison, Consultant, Colleague
Sara - You are truly an inspiration to so many of us. It was a privilege to get to know you on the WFN board. It's good to have you as one of our guiding lights as we face the future together as women. Best to you.
--
Karen Herman, Colleague