News

Summary

Quincy Public Schools Foundation announces staffing changes effective July 2022.

The Quincy Public Schools Foundation is excited to announce Heidi Lanier as the new, full-time executive director. In addition, Interim Executive Director Lindsay Knudson is stepping into the newly created role of Special Events and Fundraising Coordinator.

Lanier has spent her career in educational non-profits, holding positions at Culver-Stockton College, Quincy University and Southern Oregon PBS. Most recently, Lanier served in the Public Relations and Marketing Office at John Wood Community College. She has also served as Marketing Chair on both the Young Professionals Board of Directors for the Chamber of Medford & Jackson County and the Oregon Wine Experience Marketing Committee (Oregon), as well as a Community Representative for McLoughlin Middle School’s Site Council.  

Lanier graduated from Quincy University with a Bachelor of Arts in English. Since then, she has also completed coursework for her Master of Science in Marketing and Communication at Franklin University.

“I am honored to be given the opportunity to lead such a wonderful organization,” Lanier said. “The impact the QPS Foundation makes on the lives of our students, teachers, staff and community is incredibly valuable. The Foundation already has an impressive record giving back; I can’t wait to see what great things we can accomplish moving forward.”

The change in leadership comes after a three-month search for a full-time executive director, replacing outgoing Executive Director Kent Embree. During the time of the search, Lindsay Knudson served as the interim executive director to provide transitional leadership. Knudson has begun serving the QPS Foundation in a different capacity, through the newly created role of Fundraising and Special Events Coordinator.

“I’m grateful for Lindsay choosing to continue her work at the Foundation,” Lanier said. “In the few months she has been with us, she has accomplished so much. It’s nice to step into a role in an organization that has been so well stewarded.”

“The Foundation Board couldn’t be more excited to see what the future holds with our new team/roles in place.  Over the past 5 months, Lindsay Knudson has done a phenomenal job of stepping into the role and creating a cohesive team atmosphere,” Lindsay Ertel, QPS Foundation board president, said. “Now to be able to pair that atmosphere with Heidi’s enthusiasm, new ideas, and experience – it is an exciting time for the Foundation.”