Get to Know … Arnita Thorpe

For more than 14 years, Arnita Thorpe has been the Flinn Foundation’s go-to person. As Operations Manager, she helps with pretty much everything that the Flinn Foundation does –from grant managing and accounting to IT and web development. But when we asked her about herself and all she does for the organization, she was pretty reticent. She’s not one who seeks the spotlight or toots her own horn. As Flinn’s Executive Director and CEO, Andrea Cole, says, “Arnita is modest! She’s literally the glue that holds this organization together and running so smoothly.” But while Thorpe downplayed her role with Flinn, she shared some interesting insights into her family, her favorite food, what she loves doing in her spare time and more.

What do you love most about working at the Flinn Foundation? 

What drew me to work for Flinn is the staff. I worked with Andrea (Executive Director & CEO) and Leonard (retired Chief Investment Officer and current Board Trustee) for over 30 years. We have a great working relationship.

Tell us a bit about your family.

I have been married to my high school sweetheart Richard for 44 years. We have one son and five grandsons.

What is your favorite food?

Filet mignon – and Andiamo and Joe Muer are the Detroit restaurants I go to.

How do you spend your free time?

My free time is spent watching Lifetime channel movies. Lacey Chabert is one of the actresses I watch all the time. There is no favorite or specific movie. I look at the previews and if it appeals to me, I set my DVR, just in case I don’t have time to watch.

Coney dog or Shawarma?

I grew up eating Coneys at the American Coney Island in downtown Detroit. I do not like Shawarmas because I am not a fan of garlic.