Dr. Shana Ford Named CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities

Ford steps into the role following the tenure of Pat Sukhum, who led the agency through a period of significant expansion, including a landmark $6 million gift from MacKenzie Scott and a national agency of the year award. Her background combines two decades in banking leadership at Wells Fargo and BMO Harris with recent executive experience at NorthStar Public Schools. At NorthStar, she was credited with reversing financial strain and stabilizing enrollment figures through disciplined operational management.

Board Chair Steve Hentges highlighted Ford’s ability to pair strategic execution with deep-rooted community connections as the primary driver for her selection. As she transitions into the leadership post, Ford intends to focus on the organization's core mission of youth mentorship. The appointment was finalized with assistance from the executive search firm Ballinger | Leafblad, marking a new chapter for an organization that currently supports more than 2,100 young people annually.