Former Executive Director Jody Bacon passed away Nov. 8
We were saddened to learn of the recent passing of Jody Bacon, who played a significant part in the history of Akron Community Foundation as our previous — and first — executive director and president.
Jody, who worked at the community foundation from 1990 until her retirement in 2008, grew the staff of the foundation from one part-time member to 10, and assets from $17 million to more than $140 million. She also had a founding role in the establishment of our Women's Endowment Fund, which has empowered the lives of women and girls in our community, as well as the Gay Community Endowment Fund and Millennium Fund for Children. Throughout her career in Northeast Ohio, Jody received a number of accolades, like the 1995 Woman of Distinction Award from the Western Reserve Girl Scouts, the 1998 Harold K. Stubbs Humanitarian Award and the 1999 Rainmaker Award. In 2000, she was named a "Great Community Leader for the 21st Century," by the Boy Scouts of America, and in 2002, Northern Ohio Live listed her as one of the "Five Most Influential Women in Northeast Ohio."
Our hearts go out to Jody's family, friends and others close to her, and we're thankful for all of the contributions she made to Akron Community Foundation.