Licking County Foundation names new president Mike Schmidt to succeed Connie Hawk on Oct. 2
NEWARK − The Licking County Foundation Governing Committee announced Wednesday that it unanimously appointed Mike Schmidt as the organization’s next president, effective Oct. 2.
Schmidt will succeed Connie Hawk, who will retire Dec. 31 and then shift to a consulting role to oversee the final phase of the Louis Sullivan Building restoration and adaptive reuse project.
Schmidt, a philanthropy professional with more than 27 years experience, most recently served as executive vice president and partner with Cramer & Associates, a regional nonprofit consulting firm serving a variety of nonprofit sectors and institutions.
An internal search committee conducted a four-month executive search, guided by Business Volunteers Unlimited, a nonprofit consulting firm that specializes in coaching nonprofits through leadership transitions.
“All of my encounters with the Licking County Foundation have inspired me,” Schmidt said. “It’s such an honor to be selected to serve an organization so deeply respected in our community, and at a time of such tremendous forward motion for Licking County.”
Licking County Foundation Secretary/Treasurer Joan Franks, who heads human resources at Matesich Distributing, chaired the foundation’s search committee.
“Our competitive process was highly structured and intentional,” Franks said. “We received both local and outside interest, which speaks highly of the foundation. We could not be more thrilled with the result, as Mike brings not only the technical skills but the passion, excitement, and enthusiasm for leading our organization into the future.”
Schmidt has helped a variety of organizations and their donors achieve positive outcomes, including the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, Habitat for Humanity MidOhio, Licking County Humane Society, Licking County Family YMCA, Licking County Library, Ohio State University, Ronald McDonald House Dayton, St. Vincent Haven and The Works.
Schmidt served on the boards of Midland Theatre, Granville Community Foundation and Granville Public Library. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.
During the next three months, Hawk and Schmidt will work together with the foundation’s Governing Committee and staff to ensure a seamless transition.
This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Licking County Foundation names new president to start Oct. 2
