Giles Hired as Executive Director of Fond du Lac Area Foundation

The Fond du Lac Area Community Foundation Board of Directors announced Friday, May 30, 2024, the appointment of Greg Giles as the organization’s next executive director. Giles comes to the Foundation from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Foundation, which manages over $40 million in assets and averages nearly $3.5 million per year in donations.

The executive search was extensive and robust, focused on finding a candidate with community foundation experience, strong Fond du Lac roots, and the skills to lead and grow the organization’s grant making and change making efforts. The recruitment and interview process was led by the Fond du Lac Area Foundation’s Board of Directors, who unanimously selected Giles for the role.

“The Foundation is poised for exceptional growth under Greg’s leadership. He demonstrates innovative thinking around philanthropy as well as a commitment to improving opportunities in Fond du Lac County. Our Board of Directors and staff are excited to see where he takes the Foundation,” said Fond du Lac Area Foundation President Dave Hornung.

During his distinguished 33-year career, Giles held leadership positions at the YMCA of Greater Houston, Fond du Lac Family YMCA, Kettle Moraine YMCA, and West Suburban YMCA. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. Giles comes to the Foundation with a plethora of community and civic achievement and involvement, including TedX speaker, 2018 Donald G. Jones Leadership Awardee, former Fond du Lac City Council member, and founding partner of Fondy 100 Gives.

“There’s no place like home, and for me, that means Fond du Lac. Returning to this incredible community and having the chance to serve alongside the Fond du Lac Area Foundation is truly a homecoming. Their impactful work inspires me, and I’m excited to contribute my skills to build upon their legacy. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors,” said Giles.

Giles is slated to start his new role as executive director on July 1, 2024.