Philanthropist Vivian Rogers Pickard joins the Ruth Mott Foundation Board of Trustees, bringing decades of civic engagement and corporate leadership to the local organization. Courtesy photo
FLINT, Michigan — Acclaimed business leader and philanthropist Vivian Rogers Pickard has been appointed to the Ruth Mott Foundation Board of Trustees, bringing decades of civic engagement and corporate leadership to the Flint-based organization.
Pickard, a Grand Blanc resident, officially joined the board on Jan. 28. She previously spent more than 30 years at General Motors, retiring in 2015 as president of the General Motors Foundation. Her career has been defined by a commitment to philanthropy, community development, and corporate social responsibility.
“Vivian is dedicated to making a measurable difference in the lives of people in Michigan and beyond, and we are fortunate to work with her and learn from her,” said Maryanne Mott, board chair of the Ruth Mott Foundation. “Her years of service and deep love of Flint will benefit our board and strengthen our work to connect people, ideas, and resources for a vibrant and inclusive Flint.”
Pickard’s contributions to public service have been widely recognized. In 2024, she received the Lifetime Humanitarian Award from Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, honoring her outstanding civic and charitable efforts. The previous year, President Joe Biden awarded her the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for extensive volunteer service.
“I’m excited to join the Ruth Mott Foundation Board of Trustees and look forward to amplifying the community-voiced efforts at the heart of their mission,” said Pickard. “The Foundation’s commitment to listening to and learning from residents is a practice I deeply believe in.”
Currently, Pickard serves as president and CEO of The Pickard Group, a consulting firm focused on corporate social responsibility and business development. She also holds leadership positions on numerous boards, including the Flint Institute of Arts, Henry Ford Health System Foundation, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, among others.
With her appointment, Pickard becomes the 10th member of the Ruth Mott Foundation Board which includes four family members who are direct descendants of Ruth Mott.
A graduate of Ferris State University with a Master of Business Administration from Central Michigan University, Pickard also holds an honorary doctorate from Ferris State.
Her appointment reinforces the foundation’s mission of supporting community-driven initiatives in Flint, ensuring that residents remain at the heart of its philanthropic efforts.
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