November 30, 2025
The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) is proud to celebrate President & CEO Reverend Dr. Shannon Polk, J.D., who has been recognized by Crain’s Detroit Business as one of its 2025 Notable Leaders in Philanthropy.
This prestigious recognition celebrates philanthropic leaders who drive meaningful impact through innovation, equity-focused leadership, and community partnership; a well-deserved distinction for Shannon that captures the essence of her leadership.
A Visionary Voice in Philanthropy
When Shannon joined AAACF in 2022, it was a moment unlike any other. The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way communities connect and how philanthropy operates. While many were adapting to uncertainty, Shannon brought clarity, vision, and a deep belief that even in difficult times, the community could find new ways to come together.
Shannon’s combined background in ministry and law allows her to build bridges, elevate community voice, and bring clarity and compassion to complex issues. Before joining AAACF, she was the Executive Director of The Witness Foundation, working to develop the next generation of civil rights leaders. Previous roles included influencing grantmaking strategies at the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Executive Director of the Michigan Breastfeeding Network, and consulting for Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders Program and the Council of Michigan Foundations.
Shannon has spent her career advancing equity and systems-level change, and continues to do so as the leader of the AAACF, championing work that strengthens families, expands opportunity, and uplifts communities, with empathy and purpose at every step.
“I am deeply honored to be named a 2025 Notable Leader in Philanthropy,” said Rev. Dr. Shannon Polk. “It is a privilege to work with and serve the people of Washtenaw County, and I am grateful to our partners, donors, and community members who make this work possible. Together, we can continue building a community where generosity shapes a brighter future for all.”
Purpose Meets Place
Though Shannon began her AAACF journey during a time of social distancing, she has since found meaningful connections in Washtenaw County. From morning walks through the Nichols Arboretum to evenings at the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, she’s grown to love the vibrancy, creativity, and heart that define this community.
“This is a place where professional purpose and personal joy naturally meet,” she says. “I’m inspired daily by how people here care deeply about progress, equity, and each other.”
Her leadership reflects that same spirit: thoughtful, collaborative, and rooted in the belief that philanthropy works best when it listens first.
Leading With Heart
At AAACF, Shannon guides a team focused on connecting generosity with impact, ensuring that the foundation’s resources strengthen Washtenaw County for generations to come.
Under her direction, AAACF has supported bold initiatives like its first childcare impact investment in Apple Playschools, helping expand childcare access while creating new jobs and opportunities for working families. Efforts like these reflect Shannon’s commitment to building systems that create lasting change.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Being named one of Crain’s Detroit Business’s 2025 Notable Leaders in Philanthropy underscores Shannon’s dedication to community impact and her visionary approach to leadership. Through her work, she continues to remind us that philanthropy is more than giving; it’s about partnership, empathy, and building futures where everyone can thrive.
Please join us in congratulating Shannon Polk, D.Min, J.D., on this well-earned honor and in celebrating her continued leadership at AAACF and across the broader philanthropic community.
Rev. Dr. Shannon Polk Honored as 2025 Notable Leader in Philanthropy, Celebrated for Impact in Washtenaw County
Check out the full press release about Shannon's Crains Notable Leader in Philanthropy recognition HERE. To share this press release through your publication channels, please access any of the following:
HTML Version