As Thanksgiving season is upon us, we are grateful to be part of our donors’ philanthropy. Thus far this year, we have distributed nearly $65M million in grants, following a record year of nearly $80M in 2024, while also continuing to grow the Foundation, a community asset that will last in perpetuity. None of this would be possible without trust in our financial stewardship – on the part of our fundholders and the community at large.
That word – trust – is top of mind as we prepare for a leadership transition in finance and operations. After more than 22 years, Grace Sacerdote, CPA, Executive Vice President and CFO, will be retiring from the Foundation mid-2026. Through her leadership, expertise, and dedication, Grace is and has been key to building and retaining this trust. In my early years of leading this Foundation, I have been fortunate to work alongside her.
Grace has cultivated a strong team, which has positioned us well for the future. Erin Broderick, MBA, has been promoted to Vice President, Finance. In this expanded role, Erin is leading the finance team and day-to-day back-office functions, including the hiring of a Finance Officer. Erin will assume full responsibility for finance and accounting upon Grace’s retirement.
As the Foundation continues to grow, we will begin recruiting for a new role, a Chief Operating Officer, who will work with me to ensure that the Foundation’s strategic priorities are carried out with clarity and consistency. Thanks to outstanding local talent and a strong national field of community foundations, we expect a robust pool of candidates. Our search begins now through Fairchild HR, and our timeline for filling this role will remain flexible as we seek the right person to serve as the Foundation’s primary steward of internal operations.
We are confident in our plan to build on our strength in the coming years. As always, we are grateful for your trust in us – and for your contributions to a better Northeast Florida.
Wishing you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving,
Isaiah M. Oliver
President, The Community Foundation