It’s with mixed emotions we congratulate Gail Anthony upon the announcement of her retirement from her post as CEO of the Community Foundation of Marquette County.

We are, of course, happy for her but we’re also going to miss her leadership in the position, which is a vital one in this county.

Anthony has done an excellent job. During her tenure, the foundation has grown to almost $20 million in assets and has awarded more $6 million in grants and scholarships in Marquette County. These grants serve the community through 170 funds that support community improvement, health, education and scholarships, the environment, recreation, animal well-being, and arts and culture.

Most recently, the foundation, in collaboration with United Way of Marquette County, established the COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund that has provided over $72,000 in immediate aid to Marquette County non-profits and charities.

Several community initiatives — including the Community Environmental Monitoring Program with the Superior Watershed Partnership and Keweenaw Bay Indian Community to conduct environmental monitoring related to mining operations at Eagle Mine — are among the community initiatives Anthony has led.

The foundation’s board of trustees recently celebrated Anthony as part of the virtual annual meeting, where they announced the establishment of the Gail Anthony Endowment Fund.

The fund is supported by the board of trustees, affiliate committees, local business partners, nonprofits and individual friends and family to recognize Anthony’s years of service to Marquette County and the foundation. The fund will support unrestricted grant making in Marquette County in perpetuity.

It’s a wonderful salute to a wonderful person, who had this to say in a press release about her retirement, which takes effect Dec. 31.

“It has been a pleasure and a privilege to serve the communities of Marquette County. Getting to know and work with the individuals, businesses and nonprofits who share a passion for making our community better for everyone has been incredibly rewarding. I am proud of the work our team has accomplished during my time here, from our special initiatives to expanding our grant programs to developing a professional staff that will continue to deliver on our mission.”

Foundation Board of Trustees Chairwoman Anne Giroux said: “On behalf of the board of trustees, I want to thank Gail Anthony for her leadership for the past eight years. Her genuine compassion for this community and the people in it has energized our board of trustees, inspired our donors and engaged the community.

“As a result of her leadership, the foundation has grown in so many ways and the people of Marquette County are the true beneficiaries. Gail has built a strong team that I am confident will foster continued growth. We all wish her the very best in her retirement.”

We couldn’t have said it better. Best wishes, Gail Anthony.