About JSMF

Investing in impactful work has always been central to the JSMF story.

Our Story

James S. McDonnell, aviation pioneer and visionary founder of McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, left an indelible stamp on his industry and St. Louis.

He was known for his passion for breaking old limits of knowledge, whether in exploring space, investigating human potential through genetics, or understanding the mind and brain.

He was also passionate about investing in work that has a positive impact for generations to come.

“Mr. Mac” founded JSMF in 1950, seeking to improve quality of life by supporting advancements in complex areas of science.

As a foundation, we are now at a moment where we can reimagine what it means to carry on his legacy of investing in impactful work. We see an opportunity to shift. From a focus on complex science to a focus on the complexity of community. From broad global reach to deep local impact.

In this new era for the foundation, the St. Louis region is our only focus.

We’re putting our full support behind organizations and initiatives focused on improving economic mobility for St. Louis populations facing the starkest disparities.

We know that this is hard, necessary work. But we also believe that by working together, we can achieve prosperity that works for St. Louis.

Our Team

  • Jason Q. Purnell

    PRESIDENT

  • M. Brent Dolezalek

    VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

  • Karl Guenther

    VICE PRESIDENT FOR STRATEGY AND PROGRAMS

  • Casey Nolen

    DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

  • Gerard Hollins

    DIRECTOR OF GRANTS AND IMPACT INVESTMENT

  • Nikole Lobb Dougherty

    DIRECTOR OF LEARNING AND EVALUATION

  • Brian Knox

    GRANTS MANAGER

  • Felicia Holyfield

    EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

  • Fatima Perwaiz Khan

    DATA ANALYST

  • Jennifer Iverson

    PROGRAM OFFICER

JSMF Board of Directors

James S. McDonnell III
John F. McDonnell
Marcella M. Stevens
Jeff McDonnell
Cathy Rogers
Alicia S. McDonnell
Holly M. James
Jeanne M. Champer
Katherine H. McDonnell

News and Updates