Calhoun County, AL – The Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama (CFNEA) is preparing for a new chapter in its leadership as President & CEO Jennifer S. Maddox announces her decision to retire, effective February 14, 2025, after 13 years of dedicated service. Maddox has been a transformative force for CFNEA, overseeing its growth and solidifying its reputation as a major philanthropic partner in the region.
Throughout her tenure, Maddox led the foundation through key strategic initiatives that greatly expanded its impact in Northeast Alabama. Under her guidance, CFNEA became known as the region’s premier philanthropic partner, known for its innovation, integrity, and deep community engagement. Her leadership also fostered a dynamic team, ensuring that the foundation would continue to thrive well into the future.
“I am incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together, and I have full confidence that the future of CFNEA is as bright as ever,” Maddox shared in a statement. “As I take this next step, I look forward to seeing the Community Foundation thrive under new leadership.”
CFNEA’s Board of Trustees will soon begin the search for Maddox’s successor, ensuring a smooth transition and continued momentum for the foundation’s mission.
“The Board and I want to express our deepest gratitude to Jennifer Maddox for her exceptional leadership,” said Anthony Cook, chair of the Board of Trustees. “Jennifer’s vision and commitment have been a driving force behind CFNEA’s growth and success, and we are thankful for the remarkable impact she has had on the organization, its employees, and its stakeholders.”
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, the Community Foundation plans to host a retirement celebration to honor Maddox’s legacy.
“We are planning an event to celebrate the astounding accomplishments of a true visionary,” Cook added. “Jennifer has been an amazing friend to me personally and to the northeast Alabama communities. I look forward to celebrating her alongside Community Foundation donors, partners, and colleagues.”
As CFNEA looks ahead, the foundation’s Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that J. Mitchell Rogers, MBA, CAP®, has been appointed as interim president and CEO. Rogers, a respected leader within the community, has been with the foundation since 2016, initially serving as Director of Scholarships and Initiatives, and later expanding his role to oversee Partnerships and Operations.
“Mitch is capable, committed, and passionate about the mission of the Foundation,” Cook said. “He has proven to be a respected leader in the community, and he has the trust and admiration of trustees, staff, volunteers, and donors.”
Rogers, who holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and an MBA from Jacksonville State University, has a long history of involvement in community service. He was accredited as a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) in 2018 by The American College, furthering his ability to guide donors in achieving their philanthropic goals.
A member and past president of the Rotary Club of Calhoun County, Rogers is also an assistant governor for Rotary District 6860. He has graduated from both Leadership Randolph County and Leadership St. Clair County and serves on the Board of the Piedmont Education Trust.
Rogers expressed his excitement for the opportunity to lead CFNEA forward: “Working at the Community Foundation feeds my unceasing desire to use my knowledge and talent to improve my community and positively impact the region we serve.”
With Rogers stepping into his new role, the foundation remains well-positioned for continued success. The strong leadership team and staff are dedicated to furthering CFNEA’s mission of effective donor philanthropy, impactful grant-making, and collaborative community partnerships.
“CFNEA is well-positioned to build on its successes and continue to honor its mission of serving the communities of northeast Alabama,” Cook affirmed.
The Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama, a key player in regional philanthropy, awards between $2-3 million annually in grants and scholarships across nine counties in the region. The foundation is committed to achieving lasting positive change through the generosity of its donors, ensuring the future of the community for generations to come.
For more information about the foundation’s work, visit cfnea.org.
