“In recognizing the humanity of our fellow human beings, we pay ourselves the highest tribute.” —Thurgood Marshall

When Solmonese Search Partners (SSP) launched in September 2020, I envisioned a business that offered premiere level service, a collaborative relationship with clients, and careful attention to candidates. The encouragement and wise advice offered by so many of you fueled my imagination and brought my vision into reality. Two-and-a-half years later, SSP is thriving. Today, I am delighted to share some of the past year’s highlights along with new searches underway at SSP.  

I look forward to a continued partnership with you whether you wish to explore a new role or seek the services of a search consultant.  - John

OPEN SEARCHES
NAACP Legal Defense Fund
The Legal Defense Fund (LDF) is America’s premier legal organization fighting for racial justice. Using the power of law, narrative, research, and people, we defend and advance the full dignity and citizenship of Black people in America. —NAACP LDF Mission Statement

LDF retained Solmonese Search Partners to conduct three development searches (listed below). These roles became available at a critically important time in the nation's history as LDF confronts unprecedented threats to civil rights and seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice.

The development operation is led by Claude Johnson, a highly accomplished and dynamic development leader. 

Positions Available at LDF

• Executive Director, Individual Giving

• Director, Corporate Giving

• Director, Planned Giving

  For additional information on these roles, please visit our website.

CLOSED SEARCHES
Colorado College 
Searches at Colorado College (CC) provided me with the opportunity to partner with Mary Ann Graffeo, who assumed oversight of the advancement operation soon after L. Song Richardson’s appointment as president of CC. The roles SSP helped to fill came at a pivotal time in CC’s history as President Richardson and the college community reaffirmed the school’s mission to provide the best liberal arts education in the country and create a welcoming and inclusive community that reflects the increasing diversity of the nation. 

Appointments
Warren Lloyd, associate vice president for development
Cynthia Hyman, associate vice president for engagement

Boston University
Fueled by the tremendous success of its development and alumni engagement programs, Boston University (BU) has expanded the possibilities in scientific and academic research; prepared students to become leaders in an increasingly global, complex, and changing world; and recruited and supported faculty members and researchers who are thought leaders in their fields. Conducting the search for an executive director of alumni engagement, who will prepare the university for even greater growth, was personally rewarding for me as a BU alumnus. The role reports into Erika Jordan, BU’s vice president for alumni engagement.

Appointment
Danielle Reddy, executive director of alumni engagement

Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee
Under the leadership of Phil Kassel, Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee (MHLAC) advances the rights and opportunities of persons with mental health challenges through legal advocacy and education. In early 2021, at the height of the pandemic, MHLAC engaged SSP to conduct a search for a senior supervising attorney and last year returned to the firm to recruit a litigating attorney. 

Appointment
M. Claire Masinton, litigating attorney

Background information on SSP placements available here.