Two San Joaquin County Community Foundations Announce New Presidents and CEOs 

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 21, 2025 

Two San Joaquin County Community Foundations Announce New Presidents and CEOs 

San Joaquin County, CA—The Boards of Directors of the Lodi Community Foundation (LCF) and the San Joaquin Community Foundation (SJCF) are pleased to announce the appointments of Louis Ponick as LCF’s first President and CEO, and Michael Duffy as the new President and CEO of SJCF. 

Mr. Ponick transitions into his new role at LCF after serving over five years at SJCF, including as Interim CEO since September 2024. He officially assumes leadership of LCF on May 27, 2025. 

Mr. Duffy, the longtime President and CEO of Financial Center Credit Union, will join SJCF as its new President and CEO on May 1, 2025. 

These leadership transitions represent a pivotal moment for both organizations as they deepen their collaborative efforts to strengthen the region’s philanthropic ecosystem. 

“We are thrilled to have Louis as our new CEO,” said John Ledbetter, Chair of the Lodi Community Foundation Board. “He brings decades of experience working with community foundations and nonprofits. As a former board member of LCF, he has played a vital role in our growth. His leadership will guide us into a new era of impact and service.” 

During his tenure at SJCF, Ponick helped grow the foundation’s assets from $18 million to more than $40 million. His career includes roles as National Director of Major and Planned Gifts for the Foundation to Support Animal Protection, Executive Director of the Save Mart Employee Association, and CFO/COO of the Pediatric Dental Initiative. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from Sonoma State University and an M.B.A. from California State University, Sacramento. He is also a graduate of Leadership Lodi and has long been active in regional community projects and nonprofit boards. 

“I have spent my professional life in the nonprofit sector, and nothing has been more rewarding than my time working with community foundations,” said Louis Ponick, incoming CEO of LCF. “I’m honored to lead the Lodi Community Foundation as we build strong partnerships, support nonprofits, and invest in a vibrant future for our city and beyond.” 

Mr. Duffy, a native son of Stockton and a retired financial executive, is a familiar face in the community. He has been integral in the not-for-profit space as a board member, an administrator, and founder of several successful charities in the region. Duffy earned his undergraduate degree in International Relations from San Francisco State University and holds an International M.B.A. from Pepperdine University’s Graziadio School of Business. 

“I’m especially passionate about our region’s future and all the opportunities it brings—be it youth development, fostering the regional healthcare system, increasing local economic opportunity, and simply making the 209 a better place to live,” said Michael Duffy, incoming CEO of SJCF. “This opportunity allows me to merge my professional experience with my personal commitment to community service. I look forward to serving the community I love in this new capacity.” 

“Both of our organizations are fortunate to have two exceptional leaders stepping into these roles,” said Peter Ragsdale, Chair of the SJCF Board. “Our board is deeply grateful for Louis’s leadership during a time of transition, and we’re equally excited to welcome Michael and his wealth of experience as we enter our next chapter.” 

In their new roles, Mr. Duffy and Mr. Ponick can further support local needs and initiatives. 

“Having two thriving and impactful community foundations in the same county strengthens our local philanthropic ecosystem,” said Ponick. “It ensures diverse needs are met through a wide range of programs, partnerships, and funding opportunities.” 

“Louis and I are committed to working collaboratively,” added Duffy. “Together, we’ll foster innovation, deepen impact, and build a stronger, more resilient San Joaquin County.” 

Currently, SJCF manages $41 million in assets, while LCF is expected to surpass $40 million in 2025, thanks in part to a transformational legacy gift that will provide long-term support to local causes. 

For more information or media inquiries, please contact:

Lodi Community Foundation Media Contact:
Russ Hayward
RHayward@lodicf.org
(209)910-3523
www.lodicommunityfoundation.org

San Joaquin Community Foundation Media Contact:
Vanessa Harris
VHarris@sanjoaquincf.org
(209)943-2375
www.sanjoaquincf.org