Dear Philanthropy Delaware members and friends, 

I am sadly writing to let you know that I am resigning from my position as the President and CEO at Philanthropy Delaware.  As we have traversed through COVID-19, it became very apparent to me that I need to place myself geographically near my family.  I was offered an opportunity that would allow me to be close to my children and grandchildren, where I feel I need to be at this point in my life. I will be taking the position as President and CEO of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Foundation in Harrisburg, PA.  My last day at Philanthropy Delaware will be July 24, 2020.

Leading Philanthropy Delaware has been a wonderful experience that I will never forget. I am proud of the work that the organization has accomplished in the last three and a half years.  From the rebranding of Delaware Grantmakers Association to Philanthropy Delaware, to increased membership, the organization has advanced philanthropy in Delaware. Through enlightening and instructive programming, thought leadership, resources for our Members, forging alliances with local and state government leadership, providing grant-matching assistance to local organizations, and collective investment of our members, the culmination of work has led to more effective, efficient, and impactful philanthropy in Delaware.   

In response to COVID-19, Philanthropy Delaware worked with DCF, DANA, and UWDE to create the COVID-19 Strategic Response Initiative for Delaware.  As part of it, I served as the Director of the Delaware COVID-19 Strategic Response Fund, which has awarded $2.8 million to 128 Delaware nonprofits to date. The work will continue through the new grant programs of the Community Needs and Vision Grant Programs to continue to meet the emerging and evolving need from the pandemic.  Truly, we are stronger together. 

I cannot begin to express how grateful I am for the outstanding support of this community and our members.  As of right now, there will be no other organizational changes as far as in-office staff (other than my replacement) or the board. I am confident the board will be able to find an excellent replacement as President and CEO.  So, you can rest assured that you will continue to have the same level of service you’ve come to expect from Philanthropy Delaware including our new 10-year strategic plan that focuses on impact and equity in new and exciting ways.

But more importantly, I cannot thank you all enough for the friendships gained, all that I have learned, and all the opportunities you have generously bestowed upon me over the past few years.  I would like to thank each of you for every experience shared and the good times we had together. I would like all of you to know that working alongside you was very rewarding and I really appreciate all the help you have extended to me through my time here. It makes me wish that I had the chance to work with you more. Words are not enough to express my gratitude, but I hope that one day our paths can cross again in future.

I wish everyone the best success. Thank you very much for your kindness and support over the years.

Yours sincerely,

Cynthia Pritchard, President and CEO.