Holston Foundation Names LeRae Edwards Collins President and CEO Following Nationwide Search
The Holston Foundation Board of Directors has unanimously selected LeRae Edwards Collins as President and Chief Executive Officer following a comprehensive national search to identify the organization’s next leader.
Collins has served the Holston Foundation since 2018 and has led the organization as Interim President and CEO throughout 2025. During her tenure, the Foundation has experienced historic growth, surpassing $200 million in assets under management—the highest level in the Foundation’s history. Her leadership has been marked by strong financial stewardship, deepened relationships, and a continued commitment to the Foundation’s mission of supporting and inspiring generosity.
“Throughout her time at the Holston Foundation, LeRae has played a key role in advancing the organization’s mission,” said Jon Leonard, Chair of the Board of Directors. “As she steps in as our next leader, we are excited for what the future holds!”
The Board’s decision followed an extensive nationwide search and engagement of a professional search firm that considered a diverse pool of candidates.
“From the beginning of the search process, the Board was committed to a national search, supported by an executive search firm, to identify the best person to lead the Holston Foundation,” said Buck Gentry, Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors. “After completing that work, we are confident that LeRae is the right leader.”
Collins brings broad experience in leadership and development, through roles across The United Methodist Church, having previously served at the local church, annual conference, and general agency levels. Her leadership is informed by a deep understanding of the Foundation’s mission, partners, and those it serves.
Collins becomes the first woman to serve as President and CEO in the Holston Foundation’s more than 40-year history.
A graduate of Emory & Henry University, Collins is originally from Southwest Virginia and now resides in Knoxville with her husband, Benjamin, and their daughter and son.
Contact LeRae Edwards Collins at lcollins@holstonfoundation.org.