Marissa Larrimore draws on more than a decade of experience in foundation grantmaking, financial analysis, and collaborating with nonprofits in her role as Program Officer for Education at the Patterson Family Foundation. Raised in St. Joseph, Missouri and now living in rural Kansas, she brings both perspectives to her work, helping her connect deeply with the communities the Foundation serves. Her background in both philanthropy and finance gives her the tools to identify high-impact opportunities that expand educational access and equity in rural communities.
Before joining the Foundation in 2025, she spent nearly six years as a Foundation Program Officer at Commerce Bank, partnering with a wide range of nonprofits to review grant proposals, assess financial health, and align funding strategies with each foundation’s mission. She began her career in tax accounting, developing expertise in financial analysis and regulatory compliance—skills that continue to shape her strategic, data-driven approach to philanthropy.
At the Foundation, she helps guide investments that expand educational opportunities and strengthen schools across rural Kansas and Missouri, making sure resources go to programs that create lasting, meaningful impact.
Marissa lives in Williamsburg with her husband Cody, their barn cat, and two dogs, Hank and Drift. Her hobbies include reading, hunting, crafting, and attending the ballet.
“Though I didn’t grow up in a rural community, I chose to make one my home — an experience that deepened my appreciation for the resilience and connection rural life offers. I’m proud to work with a team that’s supporting meaningful, lasting change in rural communities today and for future generations.”
