Peter Franzen stands as a cornerstone of the Center for Community Arts and Migration (CEAM), serving as its Associate Executive Director since 2014, after initially joining the organization two years prior. In this pivotal role, Peter oversees CEAM’s daily operations and strategic direction, while also spearheading development efforts. His commitment extends far beyond CEAM, rooted in over two decades of dedicated service to enhancing the lives of children, families, and communities within St. Louis.
Leading CEAM with Strategic Vision
In his capacity as Associate Executive Director, Peter Franzen is instrumental in guiding CEAM’s path forward. He expertly manages the organization’s day-to-day activities, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. Furthermore, Peter plays a crucial role in shaping CEAM’s strategic vision, contributing his extensive experience to drive the organization’s mission and impact. His leadership also encompasses development, where he leverages his skills to secure resources and build sustainable support for CEAM’s vital programs.
A Quarter-Century of Community Commitment in St. Louis
Peter’s journey in St. Louis began in 1991, arriving from Portland, Oregon, with a commitment to a year of voluntary service at a local community agency focused on children and families. This initial year blossomed into a lifelong dedication. He pioneered and implemented impactful social group work programs for youth, encompassing after-school initiatives, interest-based groups, teen clubs, day camps, and summer camps. Embracing a full-time position in 1992, Peter solidified his commitment to St. Louis, transforming a year of service into a fulfilling career.
From Journalism to Non-Profits: Diverse Development Expertise
Before his tenure at CEAM, Peter Franzén held the position of Director of Development at the St. Louis Beacon, a regional online news source that has since merged with St. Louis Public Radio. At the Beacon, he showcased his innovative approach by creating “Beacon and Eggs,” a community engagement program designed to foster connections and support. Prior to the Beacon, Peter honed his development skills as Director of Development at The Black Rep, a renowned theater company. In this role, he successfully expanded corporate sponsorships and individual contributions, demonstrating his ability to cultivate diverse funding streams for community-focused organizations.
Mentoring and Environmental Advocacy
Following the completion of his Master of Social Work degree from Saint Louis University in 1999, Peter was selected to launch the St. Louis branch of the national EnvironMentors Project©. This impactful program connected at-risk teenagers with science professionals, fostering an interest in environmental science careers. Despite its success in engaging youth and promoting STEM education, the program faced an abrupt end in November 2001 due to significant budget cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency following the World Trade Center attacks.
Leadership Roles and Enduring Recognition
Peter Franzen’s commitment to leadership is further evidenced by his participation in Leadership St. Louis in 2001/02. In 2002, he was appointed Executive Director of Mentor St. Louis, a school-based mentoring initiative within the St. Louis Public Schools. Under his guidance, Mentor St. Louis flourished, managing over 750 adult volunteers who mentored nearly 1,000 students across numerous schools. Peter’s leadership was instrumental in building a substantial $700,000 endowment for the program, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
Peter’s academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, complementing his MSW and his practical experience in community development. While maintaining ties with family in Oregon, Canada, and Germany, Peter has firmly established St. Louis as his home. His profound impact has been recognized twice by The Organization for Black Struggle, who honored him with the “Unsung Hero of Human Rights” award, underscoring his unwavering dedication to social justice and community empowerment.
Peter currently resides in the Tower Grove Park area of St. Louis, having previously lived in the College Hill neighborhood until 2004. His continued presence and leadership in St. Louis reflect a deep-seated commitment to the city and its residents.
