Community Foundation of Louisville Names New President and CEO
Updated: August 17, 2026
The Community Foundation of Louisville has named its next President and CEO. Tawanda Owsley succeeds Ron Gallo, who is retiring. Tawanda brings nearly 25 years of philanthropic and leadership experience to the Foundation. She has deep expertise in leading multimillion-dollar fundraising campaigns and building strategic partnerships. As President and CEO, she will advance the Foundation’s mission to lead generosity across the region. She becomes the fifth President and CEO in the Community Foundation’s 42-year history.
Pictured: Tawanda Owsley, Incoming President and CEO. Photography by Gary Barragan
Tawanda’s Vision for the Future
“I am deeply honored to accept the opportunity to serve as President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Louisville,” Tawanda stated. “This organization has a remarkable legacy of bringing people, ideas, and resources together to create meaningful change. I look forward to working alongside the Foundation’s board, staff, fundholders, donors, and community partners to expand opportunity, inspire generosity, and help build a stronger future for Louisville and the region we call home.”
The Board’s Perspective on Leadership Transition
“The Board of Trustees and I would like to sincerely thank Ron Gallo for his passion, commitment, and leadership to the city of Louisville through the Community Foundation,” said Lopa Mehrotra, Board Chair, Community Foundation of Louisville. “From his arrival in 2020, he has embodied servant-leadership and inspired incredible growth at the foundation. His legacy will be felt for many years to come. As we look ahead, we are thrilled to welcome Tawanda Owsley as our new President and CEO and look forward to her leadership. Her decades of experience in philanthropy, commitment to the well-being of others, and ability to inspire generosity and care will strengthen the Foundation’s impact in the region.”
A Strong Foundation for What Comes Next
“My tenure as CEO has been a continual reminder of the unique potential of a community foundation to hold and expand the philanthropic impulses of its geography’s people,” said Ron Gallo, President and CEO Emeritus. “Together we have built an organization that makes the practice of philanthropy accessible to all who want to lean in to helping Louisville achieve its best possible future. I am excited that Tawanda Owsley, with her deep knowledge of our communities and her commitment to what is fair and just, coupled with her joyous and experienced approach to donor engagement, is now taking the helm. The Community Foundation is in exceedingly good hands.”
Tawanda will officially begin her role with the Community Foundation of Louisville on September 14, 2026.