Leading with Trust with M’Chelene Shull

M’Chelene Shull is the Executive Director of the Lee H. & Marion B. Thompson Foundation, a private foundation in Portland, Oregon that has supported conservation, environment, animal welfare, youth, and education initiatives for more than 35 years. When she stepped into her leadership role, she was looking for ways to strengthen infrastructure, support her board, and clarify how the foundation could best serve its community. Through the Education for Philanthropy Professionals (EPP) program, she found not only practical tools but also a new perspective on how to build trust, remove barriers, and maximize the good she can do in her role.

What brought you to EPP, and what did you take away from the program?

When I became executive director, I had a lot of questions about how to lead well, distribute funds effectively, and support our board. EPP aligned perfectly with what we needed. It didn’t just give me answers, it taught me to ask better questions. Instead of walking away with a checklist, I left with guiding questions that continue to shape my work.

How did EPP change your approach to philanthropy?

The program pushed me to embrace trust-based practices. One small but powerful shift was asking grantees, “What do you need most?” Many were surprised. Some said no one had ever asked them that before. That simple question changed the dynamic from “prove you deserve funding” to “we’re here to support you.” It neutralized the power imbalance and built trust in ways that boosted morale and impact.

Why is this kind of learning important right now?

We’re facing rising needs with fewer resources, and nonprofits can’t afford to be burdened by complicated processes. At the same time, our culture is full of mistrust. Real, immersive dialogue is essential. EPP created space for that, and for me it was the most valuable professional education experience I’ve ever had.

How are you applying these lessons in your role?

EPP gave me clarity on how to show up for nonprofits: remove barriers, build trust, and let them lead with their needs. Our foundation recently distributed about $8 million, and thanks to EPP I was able to approach that work with confidence. The feedback from grantees: “This makes such an impact in our community,” has confirmed that this way of giving feels right.

Any final reflections?

EPP was truly a highlight of my career. It maximized the good I can do in my role and gave me a network I can lean on. Most of all, it reminded me that effective philanthropy is about trust, humility, and supporting organizations so they can thrive.