Announcing our New Executive Director

Welcome Will F. Peterson

The Catholic Community Foundation of San Diego (CCFSD) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Will F. Peterson as its new Executive Director. With a deep connection to San Diego and the Catholic community, Mr. Peterson brings a wealth of experience in philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and Catholic education.

Peterson expressed his enthusiasm about returning to his roots: “I jumped at the opportunity to return home to San Diego because the position is driven by mission, and guided by faith and strong business principles.  This reflects what I have built over the last seven years and feels very much aligned with who I am.” Peterson, a graduate of the University of Notre Dame (B.A. ’14, M.Ed. ’16), is the founder of Modern Catholic Pilgrim, a nonprofit organization which strives to deepen faith and build community through walked pilgrimage. Most recently, the organization directed this summer’s successful National Eucharistic Pilgrimage.

“The Catholic Community Foundation of San Diego is looking forward to continued growth and impact of our mission under the guidance of Peterson”, shared Mark Neilson, Chair of the Board of Trustees.  “Will’s leadership and commitment to Catholic values and philanthropy will be instrumental in realizing the Foundation’s vision of transformative philanthropy, rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church. Working with the board, we believe he will be a driving force for community participation, social justice, and spiritual growth.”

The Catholic Community Foundation of San Diego is an emerging and dynamic organization dedicated to fostering and amplifying Catholic philanthropy. As an autonomous pious foundation formed under canon law, CCFSD operates independently from the Diocese of San Diego and is recognized as a tax-exempt nonprofit under civil law. The Foundation works to maximize philanthropic impact through investment vehicles that align with Catholic Values Investing (CVI) standards, as set by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

CCFSD currently manages approximately $35 million in assets, supporting parishes, vocations, Catholic education, and social services through a variety of endowed and non-endowed funds. The Foundation upholds the values of Catholic Principles, Stewardship, Service, Leadership, and Community.

Under Mr. Peterson’s leadership, CCFSD aims to expand its donor base and enhance its philanthropic efforts. With a background in building strong donor relationships and a passion for advancing the Foundation’s vision, he is well-positioned to lead CCFSD into this new phase of growth.

Peterson is moving home to San Diego from Minnesota with his family.  He is expected to begin his work on October 1, 2024.