Dear Friends,

A year ago, I stepped into the role of CEO at the San Antonio Area Foundation—new to the South, new to Texas, and new to this incredible city.

I have celebrated Fiesta, laughed (and cried) at San Pedro Playhouse, eaten way too many bean and cheese tacos, participated in DreamWeek, and become a part of the best class ever – the 49th class of Leadership San Antonio. From the small gestures of welcome to invitations to break bread and create community, my husband, Joshua, and I have been embraced by the ever-present kindness of San Antonians. Today, I am proud to say: this is home.

This first year has also been about listening and learning; better understanding the opportunities in this community. I have met with everyday San Antonians, elected officials, donors, business leaders, and nonprofit partners who share a desire to build a stronger city that we are all proud to call home. Too many of our neighbors are living at or below the poverty line, especially our young people and our older adults. The demand for nonprofit services has increased, but lack of resources and capacity challenge the ability to meet that need. Long lines and food scarcity persist. 

At the Area Foundation, we aspire to close opportunity gaps for those in our community who need it most. We are proud of our work that is moving the needle, e.g., our scholarship programs, the Future Ready Bexar County plan, and SALSA (Successfully Aging and Living in San Antonio). In 2024, we awarded more than $10 million in scholarships to 1,200 students. Since its 2022 launch, Future Ready has seen an increase in postsecondary enrollment in our county, which is exactly the kind of progress the plan set out to support. Similarly, since SALSA started in 2016 we have seen substantial progress in our county’s livability metrics for older adults. These are examples of how we will continue to drive towards our ambitious vision – together.

I believe deeply in the power of community foundations to connect people, resources, and purpose. That is what the Area Foundation can and will do as we continue to partner with you to move this community forward. We are your community foundation, a trusted and impactful philanthropic partner. And, together, we can create a legacy for the collective benefit of future San Antonians.  

Again, thank you so very much for your warm welcome. I am filled with gratitude for this first year—and even more energized by the road ahead.

With appreciation,
Nadege Souvenir
CEO, San Antonio Area Foundation