Community Foundation Hires New Program Officer

Frank Ridzi recently joined the Central New York Community Foundation as Program Officer for Community Initiatives. He will lead the research, coordination, implementation and evaluation of the Community Foundation’s proactive initiatives, focusing on particular areas of interest and community need. The Community Foundation’s current proactive programs support not-for-profit leadership, strengthening neighborhoods, encouraging youth philanthropy, building arts capacity and promoting literacy.

Ridzi holds a Masters Degree in Public Administration and a Ph.D. in Sociology from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School. He also carries a Certificate of Advanced Study in Women’s Studies from Maxwell. Prior to joining the Community Foundation, Ridzi served as Director for the Center of Urban and Regional Applied Research at Le Moyne College, where he still serves as Associate Professor of Sociology.

The Central New York Community Foundation connects the generosity of donors with community needs by making grants to organizations working to enhance the quality of life of those who live and work in Central New York. With assets of more than $117 million, the Community Foundation annually makes more than $5 million in grants and provides leadership support in the fields of arts and culture, community and economic development, education, environment, health and human services. Founded in 1927, the Community Foundation strives to inspire philanthropy in Central New York.