As he wraps up his term as Board Chair, Michael DuBow reflects on what it has meant to continue his family’s legacy at The Community Foundation and to help guide its next chapter of growth and impact.
Q. Your father, Lawrence DuBow, chaired the board of The Community Foundation from 1996 through 1997. What has it meant to you to FOLLOW IN HIS FOOTSTEPS?
A. Following Dad in any endeavor is indeed a challenge in that he consistently sets a very high bar given his passion, vision and exemplary communication skills. Fortunately, I had a few decades until taking on the role, which enabled me to continue to learn and grow via his philanthropic guidance and leadership.
Q. The Foundation has grown dramatically since the 1990s. What do you think are the CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES for the Foundation as we grow, and as our region grows?
A. The landscape of philanthropic initiatives and donor interests are broader than ever before, which allows for tremendous opportunities going forward. However, there is an inherent challenge in properly allocating the Foundation’s resources to adequately support the growth of new initiatives while also ensuring the core business continues to thrive.
Q. The balance between donor services and community leadership has long been a topic of discussion in the field of community philanthropy. How do you see that BALANCE PLAYING OUT IN THE FUTURE?
A. As the Foundation prepares to embark on a new strategic planning process, this will be a prominent point of discussion. The Foundation has earned the respect and trust of donors, non-profit agencies, and the Northeast Florida community as a whole. Going forward, how we choose to lean in to select community leadership initiatives, and balance those directives with donor services needs and requirements, will be paramount to ensuring a strong and healthy Foundation for the future of our community.
Q. As chair, you’ve played a key role working with our third President, Isaiah M. Oliver, during his first two years. What ATTRIBUTES do you think Isaiah brings to the Foundation?
A. Very early on in Isaiah’s time with the Foundation, it was clear to everyone on the Board that we were extremely fortunate to have him in the leadership role. The Board has connected Isaiah to all facets and pockets of our community—there are very few “corners” he has not found. When you are in Isaiah’s presence, you feel his passion and energy for the work and his genuine desire to build a better community through philanthropic initiatives.
Q. In January, you’ll pass the gavel to Chair-Elect Richard Sisisky and continue your service as chair of governance. What are you looking forward to in the NEXT CHAPTER of board leadership?
A. The two years have gone by quickly, and I look forward to supporting Richard during his time as Board Chair. From a governance standpoint, we will continue to work toward building a strong group of trustees to work alongside Isaiah and an amazing staff to help guide the Foundation through the upcoming challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The future is very bright, indeed.
Originally published in our 2025 Fall Newsletter. Browse the full digital issue.