After more than 50 years dedicated to economic and community development, and nearly a decade serving as President and CEO of this small but mighty organization, the time has come for me to announce my retirement.
Transitioning from this role is a moment filled with both reflection and immense gratitude. When I stepped into this position in 2017, I knew I was joining a legacy that spanned over five decades of strengthening American communities by providing resources to those who needed them. My goal was simple: to build on that foundation and ensure that we remained the most effective partner for the people who need us most.
I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together:
- Our evolution: Leading our transformation from NDC to Grow America was more than just a name change. It was a reaffirmation of our mission to provide opportunities to economically underserved communities and populations across the nation.
- Resilience through challenge: Navigating the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic years together showed me the true strength of our team and our partners. We didn’t just survive. We scaled our impact when the country needed it most. We saw our potential both to pull together as an organization and to reach more people.
- Driving real change: From expanding our small business lending and New Markets Tax Credit initiatives to pioneering social infrastructure through Public-Private Partnerships, we have directed billions of dollars into projects that change lives. We have created affordable housing, supported entrepreneurs, and revitalized historic districts.
To my colleagues at Grow America: You are the heartbeat of this organization. Your expertise and passion for community development are unmatched. It has been the honor of my professional life to work alongside you.
To our partners and the communities we serve: Thank you for your trust. Any success I’ve had is a direct reflection of the collaborative spirit we share.
While I am stepping away from the day-to-day operations, my commitment to the mission of economic equity remains as strong as ever. I leave Grow America knowing that the organization is perfectly positioned to continue to lead for the next half-century, guided by the energy of new leadership and the everlasting commitment to support communities across the nation.
As Robert F. Kennedy said, “Few will have the greatness to bend history itself, but each of us can work to change a small portion of events.” I believe Grow America exemplifies that greatness in its work every day. I’m excited to see how it will bend history and change events for the better in the years to come.
With gratitude and humility,
Daniel Marsh III