Behrens named executive director at Johnson Center for Philanthropy

Teresa (Teri) Behrens has been appointed executive director of the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley. 

Behrens assumed her new role October 22. 

Prior to accepting the position as executive director, Behrens served as the director of strategy and programs at the Johnson Center, and worked to integrate an applied research mission with the needs of the changing nonprofit sector. 

Behrens has also served as the director of the Institute for Foundation and Donor Learning, and has served as the editor-in-chief for The Foundation Review, the nation's first peer-reviewed journal of philanthropy, since founding the publication at the Johnson Center in 2009.

"Teri's long-term dedication to the work and the people of the Johnson Center is inspiring," said Dorothy Johnson, the center's namesake. "Her proven expertise and visionary leadership in the practice of philanthropy put this organization in the best possible position to meet the needs of an evolving and diverse social sector and university community."

George Grant, dean of Grand Valley's College of Community and Public Service, said Behrens' leadership and depth of expertise in philanthropy have helped to shape the Johnson Center into what it is today.

Behrens replaces Kyle Caldwell, who is now serving as the executive director of the Council of Michigan Foundations.

The Johnson Center will also host an open house and celebration at the Johnson Center offices to welcome Behrens to her new role from 4-6 p.m. on December 18.