Released on: September 16, 2008, 6:57 am

Press Release Author: DeDe Esque, Nokomis Foundation

Industry: Non Profit

Press Release Summary: Nokomis Foundation, a private foundation founded by
philanthropist Mary Caroline “Twink” Frey in 1989 to create a stronger voice for
women and girls, has hired Anne Hagen as its new program director.

Press Release Body: September 16, 2008, Grand Rapids, Mich.—Nokomis Foundation, a
private foundation founded by philanthropist Mary Caroline “Twink” Frey in 1989 to
create a stronger voice for women and girls, has hired Anne Hagen as its new program
director.

Hagen brings over 20 years of management experience to her new role. She will be
responsible for program and grants management, ongoing development of technology and
knowledge sharing practices, and other projects related to advocacy initiatives that
support the Foundation’s mission.

“Anne’s practical experience will be an instrumental asset to Nokomis and our
partners as we work to expand the impact of our grantmaking and become a stronger
leader in the women’s funding community. Furthermore, her longtime commitment to
working on issues that affect women gives her a natural passion for our mission,”
said DeDe Esque, president of the Foundation.

Hagen most recently served as a vice president at Fifth Third Bank and began her
career with Old Kent Bank. She also served as the first director of the Aquinas
College Women’s Studies Center and currently serves on the college’s Jane Hibbard
Idema Women’s Studies Center Advisory Committee.

“Nokomis has significantly influenced our community, and I am excited to be joining
an organization that has such an outstanding reputation,” said Hagen. “The
Foundation reflects many of my personal values and provides me an opportunity to
return to my earlier work with women's issues. I look forward to using my skills and
experiences to contribute to the commitment of empowering women and girls and make
our impact more widely felt.”

Hagen’s introduction marks continued growth for the Foundation. In 2007, Esque was
appointed president after serving as program officer since 2001. Caitlin Hayes
Townsend also joined the staff in 2007 as office manager. Frey continues to serve as
chair of its advisory committee. More information and staff biographies are
available at www.nokomisfoundation.org/staff.php.

# # #

Nokomis Foundation, a private foundation based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, creates a
stronger voice for women and girls by being a stronger voice for women and girls.
Learn more at NokomisFoundation.org.

Web Site: http://www.nokomisfoundation.org

Contact Details: DeDe Esque, President
Nokomis Foundation
(616) 451-0267, ext. 14
desque@nokomisfoundation.org