Shawn Wischmeier

Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies

Margaret Cargill was an heir to the largest privately held company in the U.S. —Minnesota–based agribusiness Cargill Inc. However, she lived a relatively modest life in Southern California and consistently and anonymously donated much of her fortune. A recipient of her generosity remarked for the Washington Post in her obituary that, “She gave from the heart, not in search of any kind of recognition." In 2006, Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies (MACP), the umbrella organization for multiple grantmaking entities, was established to continue her philanthropic legacy. MACP’s DEIJ (diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice) vision was drawn from the values and vision of Margaret Cargill. Early leaders of MACP knew Margaret personally and they continue to provide valuable insights to preserve the legacy and culture that supports the DEIJ vision. MACP has been making concerted efforts to bring additional voices and perspectives to the organization, which includes an increasingly diverse staff. MACP was founded by women, and women currently occupy the role of President, Chief Financial Officer, and General Counsel. MACP’s DEIJ vision extends beyond staffing and grantmaking to how the investment team manages its approximately $8 billion in assets. In 2012, Shawn Wischmeier became CIO and began the process of building an internal investment team. He has been pivotal in aligning the organization's investments with its DEIJ vision beginning with the development of a comprehensive strategy that includes the use of internal investment professionals and an external consultant to measure diversity and equity across its investment management partners. The foundation has also selected multiple funds of funds to source and make investments in diverse managers. Additionally, the investment team is actively sourcing and underwriting diverse managers for direct commitments. MACP is headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota not far from the tragic death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Within 60 days, MACP committed $2 million to funding 20 organizations focused on racial, economic, and social equity. This rapid action and the ongoing commitment to under-represented and underserved communities demonstrates that MACP continues to be steeped in the caring and compassionate legacy of Miss Cargill.