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Updated: 5 hours ago / 2025 40 Under 40 honorees

40 Under 40: Jeannette Andre is cultivating connection through philanthropic leadership

Jeannette Andre, 38: President and CEO, Maine Philanthropy Center
Jeannette Andre, 38 President and CEO, Maine Philanthropy Center Read all about the 40 Under 40 honorees
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Greatest achievement: Leading the Maine Philanthropy Center and helping guide our community through significant and often frightening events — the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lewiston-Auburn shooting and now the recent federal funding cuts and targeting of historically excluded communities. Building community is never easy, especially in moments of confusion and scarcity. Showing up can be even harder, as it often means choosing to give up power and control.

Passion project: In addition to raising my two girls to be good humans, I find deep meaning in cultivating connection. Whether serving on nonprofit boards, investing in friendships, advocating for voting rights, or simply getting my hands dirty in the garden, I’m passionate about joy and connection as acts of resistance.

Lightbulb moment: Early in my career, I realized how empowering my individual choices could be. I learned that I don’t have to work in a place that doesn’t align with my values — an experience that has shaped how I lead my organization and nurture its culture. My choices, big and small, are tools for shaping the kind of world I want to live in.

Influential book: “The Body Keeps the Score,” by Bessel Van Der Kolk

Favorite movies or TV show: “The Wire” and lately “Slow Horses”

Personal heroes: My sisters

Favorite quote: “I can’t believe what you say, because I see what you do.” — James Baldwin

Best way to recharge: Laugh and sing, read, do a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle, tend to my garden and create.

Maine’s biggest challenge: Overcoming division and inequities, including the failure to fully recognize the sovereignty of the Wabanaki Tribes. Recognizing tribal sovereignty is not only a matter of justice, but also a pathway to stronger, healthier communities.

Dream dinner guests: QuestLove, Grace Lee Boggs and Dr. Vivek Murthy. They seem like good hangs.

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