Community Foundation for Greater New Haven Appoints Walter D. Woods SVP of Development, Donor Services

NEW HAVEN, CT — The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven named Walter D. Woods as its new senior vice president, development and donor services.

Described as a three-decade-long "seasoned nonprofit and philanthropic leader," Woods
was tapped to lead the Foundation’s strategic development efforts, donor engagement, and philanthropic services.

Woods most recently served as vice president of philanthropy at CVS Health, where he "helped
catalyze philanthropic investment in communities across the country," according to the Community Foundation. Before CVS, he was Humana Foundation CEO.

"Walter brings a dynamic combination of vision, integrity, and experience to this critical role," President and CEO of The Community Foundation Dr. Karen DuBois-Walton said. "His commitment to equity, deep development expertise, and proven ability to build partnerships will strengthen the Foundation’s ability to serve the 20-town region. We are excited to welcome him to the team."

Woods succeeds Dotty Weston-Murphy, who retired from The Foundation earlier this year after 17 years of "distinguished service."

"I am honored to join The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven in this pivotal role,"
Woods is quoted as saying. "The Foundation’s legacy of inspiring philanthropy and advancing equity deeply resonates with my personal and professional values. I look forward to collaborating with the
Foundation’s leadership, donors, and the Greater New Haven community to build lasting,
inclusive and community-driven impact."

In his role, Woods will oversee all development, stewardship, and donor service efforts, focusing on deepening relationships with current and prospective donors, growing philanthropic assets and ensuring that The Foundation’s resources are aligned with the region’s most pressing needs.

Woods has held senior positions at organizations including Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Foundation, AARP Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs, and The World Bank Group. Throughout his career, he has raised over $450 million and led philanthropic investments exceeding $500 million.

"Woods’ leadership style blends analytical rigor with empathy, collaboration, and a relentless
focus on community impact. He holds a steadfast belief that philanthropy should be bold,
inclusive and centered on the voices and needs of the communities it serves," a statement from the Foundation reads.

About Community Foundation for Greater New Haven

The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven’s mission is to inspire, support, inform,
listen to, and collaborate with the people and organizations of Greater New Haven to build an
ever more connected, inclusive, equitable, and philanthropic community. Established in 1928, The Foundation is one of the oldest and largest community foundations in the U.S.