Elke Buckland

Executive Director, the SAIGH foundation

Elke Buckland is the Executive Director of The Saigh Foundation, a private foundation founded in St. Louis, Missouri in (1999). The work of the Saigh Foundation is focused on enhancing the lives of children and youth in the areas of education and health. Elke succeeded a foundation founder, JoAnn Hejna, as only the second Executive Director in the foundation’s history. Elke began her professional career in manufacturing and supply chain management as an owner operator for sixteen (16) years. She transitioned into not-for-profit management in 2013, as a leader on the agency side of philanthropy. Her experience in both not for profit development and operations gives her a unique perspective and deep understanding of the challenges and impact charitable organizations often face in successfully executing their missions. She has extensive knowledge in setting strategy and implementing initiatives for organizational growth and her ability to cultivate longstanding relationships, both professionally and personally, is not only a strength but a passion. In her leadership roles Elke has managed, mentored, and collaborated with board members, volunteers, and staff to foster collaboration and collectively influence systemic change throughout the community.
Elke’s work and accomplishments extend into her personal philanthropy, as she serves in a volunteer capacity as the Grants Chair for St. Louis Social Venture Partners, the philanthropic arm of the St. Louis Regional Business Council. Her efforts with SVP include directing the volunteer board and committee members in the areas of funding and collaborative partnerships with St. Louis area not for profit organizations. Her goal in her professional and personal endeavors is to strengthen the systems that lift up the entire community. 

How does Philanthropy Missouri support your work in the philanthropic sector?
For me, Philanthropy Missouri provides a platform for collaborative partnerships between like-minded visionaries that fosters efficiency in capacity and sustainability for far-reaching, long-lasting, positive impact in our community.