The Kresge Foundation Board of Trustees has elected Zenna Elhasan a vice president of the foundation.

As an appointed officer, and in conjunction with her current roles as Kresge’s general counsel and board secretary, Elhasan will continue to help navigate complex decisions, strengthen governance, manage institutional risk and build systems that support long-term effectiveness.

Since joining the foundation in 2018, Elhasan has helped guide Kresge’s legal affairs, supported the development and enforcement of foundation policies and practices, advised on governance matters, managed outside counsel partnerships and revamped contract processes. She explained that as the foundation’s first in-house counsel, her goal has been to demonstrate that a legal team can serve a bigger function than reviewing documents or identifying risks.

“I am grateful for the confidence Kresge’s leadership and trustees have placed in me, and for the colleagues who have made this work possible,” Elhasan said. “As I step into this expanded position, I hope to continue strengthening Kresge’s ability to operate with integrity, embrace innovation responsibly, and remain focused on the communities and mission we serve.”

Before joining Kresge, Elhasan served as corporation counsel for Wayne County (Michigan) and held a variety of legal leadership roles in both the public and private sectors. She also serves on the Michigan Civil Rights Commission and has been recognized for her contributions to the legal profession, including recent honors from the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan.