Board of Trustees elects new chair
Sumair Sheikh elevated to Board Chair
The Northland Foundation Board of Trustees has selected Sumair Sheikh to lead the board as Chair. Sumair, who was serving as Co-vice Chair, was elected to move into the Chair position late this fall upon the death of Roy Smith.
Sheikh first became a Trustee starting in 2018 before stepping away in the spring of 2022 to focus on a new job as Executive Director at LISC Duluth. He returned to the Northland board starting a three-year term in October 2024.
“Sumair is a charismatic yet steady leader,” stated Northland Foundation’s President, Tony Sertich. “It is not easy to pivot into such a high-responsibility role on short notice, especially under sad circumstances. I appreciate how Sumair is helping our board and organization through this transition.”
Prior to heading LISC Duluth, Sheikh worked with school districts in the region, as well as in the Twin Cities, bridging resources between community and schools, designing and implementing racial equity and cultural competency systems.
He earned his master’s degree in advocacy and political leadership from the University of Minnesota Duluth, a bachelor’s degree in biology from Michigan State University, and a secondary teacher certification from Eastern Michigan University.
Mary Harrelson will continue as the sole Vice Chair, alongside Jamie Adams, treasurer, and Ashley Hall, secretary, of the 11-member board.
We thank Sumair and all our Trustees for their service to our organization and to the people and communities of the region.