Chanda Smith Baker

Chanda Smith Baker has over 20 years of experience working in, for, and with underestimated communities. In 2017, Chanda joined the Minneapolis Foundation as the Senior Vice President of Impact, where she oversees the foundation’s grant-making programs, provides strategic direction to community initiatives and partnerships, and is the event and podcast host of Conversations with Chanda.

Previously, Chanda spent 17 years at Pillsbury United Communities, culminating her career there as president and CEO. As CEO, Chanda led the efforts to launch and house Public Allies Twin Cities, and previously served on Public Allies national board of directors. She has served on numerous nonprofit and philanthropic boards, including as a trustee at the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota and a board member for CommonBond Communities.