Kauffman Foundation adds chief IT officer to CEO’s cabinet; role will use tech to open access, opportunities

A Kauffman Foundation tech veteran is expected to help align the organization’s technology priorities in support of its mission to reduce barriers in college access, workforce development, and entrepreneurship, said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace.

Donell Hammond, who joined the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation in 2018, has been named chief information technology officer and a member of the CEO’s cabinet. 

Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace speaks during the Sept. 19 Spark event at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation; photo by Tommy Felts, Startland News

“Donell’s leadership and expertise ensures that technology not only supports but accelerates the Foundation’s local and national impact,” said Burns-Wallace, president and CEO of the Kauffman Foundation. “He leads a team that works to streamline operations and secure our tech infrastructure, systems performance, and service delivery. Most importantly, he takes a people-first approach to connecting us with the tools and trends that are transforming our working landscape.”

Hammond notably is a 2022 graduate of the Centurion Program and a finalist for the Kansas City ORBIE Award, the premier technology executive recognition program in Greater Kansas City, which honors CIOs who have demonstrated excellence in technology leadership. 

His work at the Kauffman Foundation focuses on the seamless integration of technology to enhance its efforts to increase access and opportunities for communities locally and nationwide, according to a press release from the influential grantmaking organization.

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“Hammond serves as a mentor to the next generation of information technology innovators outside of the Kauffman Foundation as well,” the release said. “He works to span the digital divide that limits communities’ access to advanced technology and serves on community boards focused on digital equity and community impact.”

A native of Junction City, Kansas, Hammond earned his associate’s degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations, from Kansas State University, a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from Friends University, and a Master of Science degree in Information Systems and Technology Management from Capella University. 

He moved to Kansas City in 2011.

“This is an exciting time for everyone at the Foundation who has had a hand in updating our strategic plan and unveiling our grantmaking philosophy,” Hammond said. “I’m especially proud of the role our technology team played to support that effort. I look forward to having the tools and processes in place to align our work with our mission, stay connected to our community, and support the legacy of Mr. Kauffman.”