MEDIA, PA. [February 26, 2025] – The Foundation for Delaware County today announced that its President, Frances M. Sheehan, will retire in the fall of this year after eight years of transformational leadership.
Sheehan became the Foundation’s first president in January 2017, guiding its transition from the sale of Crozer-Keystone Health System to Prospect Medical Holdings into the thriving community foundation it is today. Under her leadership, the Foundation has become a recognized force for philanthropic stewardship, impact, and innovation in the region.
To ensure a seamless transition, the Foundation’s Board of Directors has engaged Kittleman & Associates, a national executive search firm, to lead the search for the next president. The Board’s Search Committee, led by Steven Scott Bradley, aims to identify a new president by Fall 2025.
A Legacy of Growth and Impact
“It has been an honor and a privilege to lead The Foundation for Delaware County over the past eight years,” said Sheehan. “Thanks to the trust of our donors, we have created opportunities that have transformed lives throughout Delaware County. With a strong reputation and a committed leadership team in place, now is the right time for new leadership to build on our success and take the Foundation into its next phase of growth.”
Foundation Board Chair Cyrise Dixon praised Sheehan’s leadership, particularly her ability to foster a culture of excellence and collaboration. “Frances has been instrumental in shaping the Foundation’s identity and impact,” said Dixon. “We are deeply grateful that she notified the board of her plans last October, providing ample time for a thoughtful succession process, and allowing us to continue to pursue our mission seamlessly.”
Sheehan’s Leadership Achievements
During Sheehan’s tenure, the Foundation achieved significant milestones, including:
Sheehan’s dedication extends beyond the Foundation, serving on boards such as the Riverfront Alliance of Delaware County, the Delaware County Economic Development Corporation, the Delaware County Estate Planning Council, and the Delaware County Interactive Gaming Revenue Authority (DCIGRA).
Looking Ahead
As the Foundation prepares for its next chapter, it remains focused on its mission to serve Delaware County through philanthropy, partnerships, and community-driven initiatives.
“Delaware County is stronger because of Frances’ leadership,” said Dixon. “We look forward to building on this incredible foundation as we continue to create opportunities for all who call this community home.”
For more information about The Foundation for Delaware County, visit delcofoundation.org.
About The Foundation for Delaware County
The Foundation for Delaware County is the largest grantmaking philanthropy in Delaware County, PA. One of 900 community foundations across the U.S., the Foundation offers support and resources for nonprofits of every size, helps generous people give with more impact, brings together funders, nonprofits, and elected officials to address critical community problems, and responds to major challenges and crises as they arise.
In addition to grant funding, the Foundation operates the Center for Nonprofit Excellence to strengthen Delaware County’s nonprofit community through training workshops and peer learning opportunities. The Foundation encourages philanthropy by connecting donors to worthy causes through efficient charitable giving vehicles like donor-advised and scholarship funds.
On May 8-9, 2024, the Foundation launched Delaware County’s first online giving day, Delco Gives. Delco Gives raised over $1.7M from more than 9,600 donors for 281 nonprofits. Join us for the second annual Delco Gives on May 8-9, 2025.
