Partner of the Month: Kerry McClenahan
Kerry became a Partner in April of 2010 to involve her children in community service, meet like-minded people who believe in creating a better Portland, and use her skills to contribute to the betterment of our community. She first found her fit in our communications committee, helping SVP uncover its core brand identity elements and outline a plan for publicizing the organization to its potential Partners and Investees. Since her introduction to SVP, Kerry has become a rockstar to the SVP team. She has been on SVP’s Board for six years and has served as Board Chair for two years. She was recruited to the Board following her service on the BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) Team that selected our first focused goal, Ready for Kindergarten. She has also served as part of a Resource Development Team, a Communications Task Force, the Policy and Advocacy Task Force, and is now chairing our Capacity Investment Team, which manages our community investment portfolio. “Kerry always leads the charge when we have needs to be addressed,” said Mark Holloway, CEO. “We couldn’t have a more passionate advocate. I am always inspired by her example.”
Beyond her committed efforts on SVP’s mission, Kerry is the CEO of McBru—a business-to-business marketing firm focused on technology which she co-founded in 1993. Her areas of expertise include branding, positioning and messaging, social media strategy, and lead nurturing. She has two children, Marika and Kellen.
As Kerry finishes a successful tour of duty on our Board, we must take the opportunity to honor her as Partner of the Month. We have half a mind to make her Partner of the Decade.
Hear more about Kerry’s service to SVP in her own words:
What drove you to join SVP?
I always say I joined SVP with my head, and I stay with my heart. The venture philanthropy model appealed to my logical side - it just makes sense. Once we adopted our R4K goal, my heart was hooked. What could be more meaningful than ensuring social and racial justice for our community’s youngest and most vulnerable? Not to mention I get to partner with some of the most amazing people in Portland.
What has been most rewarding for you thus far?
It was certainly an honor to chair the board. In that capacity, I got to work closely with Mark and the rest of the extraordinarily talented SVP staff. Honestly though, there is nothing I’ve been involved with at SVP that hasn’t been rewarding.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to cook for family and friends, and dinners at our house often involve board games. I also enjoy taking walks and hikes with the dog around NW Portland and Forest Park.