14 emerging philanthropists selected for Weaver Philanthropic Initiative Class of 2019

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The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida has seated its latest class of the Weaver Philanthropic Initiative — a program now entering its 20th year. 

The fourteen emerging philanthropists in the 2019 class will learn more about the community’s needs and how to maximize their charitable giving, just like their predecessors. The Weaver Philanthropic Initiative Class of 2019 includes:

• John Baker

• Autumn Combs

• Ashton Hudson

• Mandy Hudson

• Susan Ward Kelly

• Marion Lane

• Willie Lane

• Courtney McGehee

• Priyanka Murthy

• Ragu Murthy

• Michael Schmidt

• Kendall Sisisky Valliere

• Ashley Stein Wotiz

• Matt Wotiz

Program alumni and members of The Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees welcomed the Weaver Philanthropic Initiative Class of 2019 at a reception in November. In late January, the class began its six-month education process, including opportunities to experience hands-on grantmaking. Along the way, members will learn about the critical issues and abundant opportunities that exist in the community. At its conclusion, participants will have an understanding of their own philanthropic leadership style, as well as an enlightened look at the grantmaking opportunities in the area.

“As a member of the 2008 class, I can personally attest to the value of the Weaver Philanthropic Initiative,” commented Ryan A. Schwartz, chairman of the board of trustees of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. “These individuals are about to embark on a journey which will add to their understanding of philanthropy, and in all likelihood, result in a continuation of our community’s great history of giving as well as improve Northeast Florida and inspire others to do the same.”

The Community Foundation has been identifying and guiding the next generation of philanthropists through this program since 1999. In 2013, in recognition of the philanthropic leadership provided to the community by J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver, the initiative was renamed the Weaver Philanthropic Initiative.