Tucson grantmaker appoints new leader to guide its next chapter
TUCSON, AZ (December 12, 2025) – The Marshall Foundation has appointed Alexis Ryland as its new executive director, effective December 9. Ryland brings deep familiarity with the foundation’s operations, having managed its commercial property portfolio for the past 18 months as property manager with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR.
“What drew me to the Marshall Foundation from the start was its model,” Ryland said. “In traditional property management, the revenue goes to an owner’s bottom line. Here, the revenue we generate through our leases goes back into the community through grants and scholarships. That changes everything about how you show up every day—and honestly, it’s why I couldn’t be more excited to step into this role.”
A service-oriented professional with a background in commercial real estate, office brokerage and hospitality, Ryland has overseen daily operations across all Marshall Foundation properties within Main Gate Square, working closely with tenants and community stakeholders. Ryland has also served as a committee member of the PICOR Charitable Foundation since 2022 and is a current participant in the Lead Tucson program from Greater Tucson Leadership (class of 2026) — experiences giving her critical insights into the workings of strategic philanthropy and informed perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in Tucson and Southern Arizona.
“Alexis has immersed herself in every aspect of our operations and built strong relationships throughout Main Gate Square,” said Bruce Burke, president of the Marshall Foundation’s board of directors. “Her experience, her energy, and her genuine commitment to our mission made her the clear choice to lead us forward.”
Ryland said she sees the foundation as being at a pivotal moment, with opportunities to deepen its community impact and develop a long-term strategic vision. “I’m excited to build on the foundation’s legacy,” she said, “to strengthen our partnerships with the organizations we support and help more people understand the connection between Main Gate Square and the educational opportunities and other community impacts we help fund.”
Ryland succeeds Kelly Huber, who joined Marshall as the foundation’s first executive director. “When an opportunity arose that represented the natural next step in Kelly’s career, we supported her decision to pursue it,” Burke said. “We’re grateful for her many contributions during her tenure, including helping to raise our profile as a local funder. I’m confident that she’ll continue to make a meaningful impact in our community and beyond.”
About the Marshall Foundation & Main Gate Square
The Marshall Foundation was established in 1930 as Arizona’s first private foundation. Its giving is funded by retail leases on commercial properties within Main Gate Square, real estate acquired over time by founder Louise Foucar Marshall, the University of Arizona’s first full-time female professor. Today, Main Gate Square is home to more than 50 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, plus two full-service hotels—all within steps of the University of Arizona main gate at Park Ave. and University Blvd. Since its founding in 1930, the Marshall Foundation has provided $33,903,867 in grants and scholarships for underserved populations across Southern Arizona.
