Last week, 47 leaders from Catholic foundations across the U.S., including Executive Director Dawn M. Stark of the Foundation of the Diocese of Raleigh, convened at the Augustine Institute in St. Louis for the annual CEO Symposium.
The time together was spent learning and growing as leaders prepare for what is known as the “great wealth transfer” over the next 18 years—an estimated $84 to $124 trillion expected to pass from the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers to younger generations and charitable organizations. This shift will have a significant impact on charities, including parishes, schools, and ministries across our diocese.
The gathering afforded each leader opportunities for professional and spiritual growth, networking, and developing strategies to align with donor intentions and better steward Catholic generosity.
Archbishop Emeritus Robert Carlson, who has started three Catholic foundations, shared his impactful thoughts. “We empower people when we make them part of our work, and we partner with them on their wishes,” he said. He also reminded the leaders that wealth in a rural diocese is often found in land.
Participants also heard from Dr. Tim Gray, president of the Augustine Institute, about the inspiring story of generosity that allowed the institute to move from Denver to its current 283-acre, state-of-the-art campus, formerly Boeing’s leadership and training facility.
The Consortium of Catholic Foundations continues to be an influential community of leaders sharing knowledge, insight, and resources to strengthen dioceses nationwide. One ongoing initiative is a shared marketing toolkit, which pools resources to reduce costs and increase impact.
