Goodwill of Greater Detroit Executive Vice President, Chief Mission Officer to Retire After 45+ Years of Service
Felicia Hunter is set to close out nearly half a century of service on November 30, 2025
DETROIT (November 7, 2024) – After more than 45 years of service, Felicia Hunter, Goodwill of Greater Detroit’s (Goodwill) executive vice president and chief mission officer, has announced her retirement.
For nearly half a century, Hunter has played an instrumental role in bolstering Goodwill’s mission to build pathways to independence for vulnerable metro Detroit residents through personal development and the power of work.
Some of her most powerful contributions have included the development and implementation of several Goodwill flagship programs and services, helping launch powerful initiatives such as Flip the Script – an award-winning anti-recidivism program geared at helping justice-involved individuals avoid reoffending, maintain employment and lead prosperous lives. Through programs like this and many others, Hunter has helped to transform hundreds of thousands of lives during the course of her career.
“I am honored to have spent my career doing work I truly believe in, for an organization with a mission I hold so dear,” said Hunter. “As I close out this chapter, I feel privileged to reflect on many fulfilling experiences, memories and relationships that I will always cherish. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for my Goodwill family as I look back on all that we have achieved together, investing in people and building brighter futures for metro Detroiters.”
Guided by a passion for helping others overcome obstacles, Hunter began her career with Goodwill in 1979, initially serving as a counselor and evaluator. She went on to hold multiple positions in vocational services and operations, including as the organization’s chief operating officer from 1995-2008, before taking on her current role.
Over the years, Hunter’s role evolved from coaching a diverse pool of professional development program trainees to serving as a mentor to others on her team, helping them unlock opportunities to expand their repertoire and advance their careers. She also has guided Goodwill in the delivery of quality services by coordinating resources, staff, facilities, finances and accreditations, as needed.
“Felicia’s dedication to service and passion for helping others has been a cornerstone of Goodwill of Greater Detroit for nearly half a century,” said Dan Varner, chief executive officer, Goodwill of Greater Detroit. “Her visionary leadership has informed the very fabric of our organization, and she has left an impact on the lives of countless
Detroiters who have benefitted from her outstanding contributions to the community. She will be deeply missed, but we draw strength in knowing her legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward.”
Hunter’s retirement from her post will be effective November 30, 2025. Goodwill’s leadership team will develop her succession plan in the coming weeks and months and will spend the next year working in collaboration with Hunter to ensure a smooth transition of her responsibilities.
