Dan Winslow Appointed President and CEO of the New Hanover Community Endowment

Wilmington, N.C., August 19, 2024 – After a nationwide search, the New Hanover Community Endowment (NHCE) board has selected seasoned nonprofit executive Dan Winslow to lead the organization as president and CEO.

The CEO search was led by moss+ross, a consulting firm that focuses on strengthening North Carolina nonprofits. The firm has provided consulting to more than 265 North Carolina nonprofit and educational organizations over the last 15 years.

“The enthusiasm nationwide to lead our team was evident in the number of strong applications we received for this position,” said Board Vice Chair Shannon Winslow, who led the NHCE’s CEO search committee. “Dan is the best person to take the reins and lead this organization toward transformational change in our community, now and into the future.”

Despite sharing a last name, Shannon Winslow and Dan Winslow are not related.

Dan Winslow’s distinguished career spans various roles across the business, legal, legislative, and nonprofit industries. As a former Massachusetts judge, legislator, and chief legal counsel to former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, he has served in senior roles across all three branches of state government.

Since October 2021, Winslow has led the New England Legal Foundation (NELF) in Boston, which champions free enterprise, property rights, limited government based on rule of law, and inclusive economic growth. He conceived NELF’s Equalizer Institute, which will serve as a free legal clinic for underrepresented entrepreneurs to start and grow their new businesses.

Set to launch in 2025, Winslow is most honored that Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center For Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center), is the honorary chair of the Institute’s advisory committee.

“The Equalizer Institute will fill a critical gap in the legal ecosystem and give all people a fair shot at the American dream,” Dan Winslow said. “I’m excited to watch the team continue to roll out this proof of concept for a national model of hope and opportunity.”

Winslow brings extensive private sector experience to NHCE. He built and managed a global legal team of nearly 70 lawyers and legal professionals for Rimini Street, Inc. during the company’s transition from private to public company status. Additionally, he served as a partner or counsel to two international law firms.

“I’ve enjoyed getting to know Dan and I am confident he is the person who can lead our endowment,” said Board Chair Bill Cameron. “His diverse experience will be invaluable in our efforts to invest in the community and serve our neighbors.”

Winslow’s appointment brings a fresh perspective and innovative strategies to drive NHCE’s mission forward. His vision and leadership will enhance the NHCE’s ability to address community needs and expand impact.

“NHCE can be a catalyst for change to address the root causes of issues that impact the quality of life in New Hanover County,” Winslow said. “While I am new to the area, I have family in Wilmington and know what a special place it is. I am eager to learn more about the nonprofit and community organizations we can lift up through our work, to meet people in the community, and to serve the citizens of New Hanover County.”

Winslow will begin his role as CEO on Oct. 1, 2024. In the interim, Lakesha McDay, executive vice president of programs and operations, will continue to oversee daily operations.

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