The long-time President of the Central New York Community Foundation is stepping down this summer. Buffalo native Peter Dunn has led the philanthropic organization for 15 years. During that time, CNYCF’s assets nearly quadrupled to nearly $400 million, annual grantmaking more than tripled to $18 million, and the staff grew by nine to 25. All of that led to an increase in scope and visibility across the region, including an endowment for Say yes scholarship program, the LeadSafe program to end childhood lead poisoning, and a grant program to fund black-led community projects.
In a release, Dunn said this change is happening at a time when the organization is in a position of enormous strength.
“The Community Foundation has never been stronger over its 95-year history than it is today," Dunn said. "We are in the midst of a strategic planning process that will outline a clear vision for our future. This is a good time for a new leader to take the Community Foundation through its centennial and beyond.”
The board of directors will conduct a national search for a successor. Board vice chair Bea González says Dunn has done an incredible job boosting the Community Foundation’s impact, reputation, and financial position.
“We will be looking for an energetic individual who can build upon this progress and further the Community Foundation’s bright future,” González said.
Dunn will step down in June. CNYCF is a supporter of WAER.
