Welcome to a journey through the heart of the Catholic Community Foundation (CCF), an organization where dedication, faith, and community service converge to create a lasting impact. At CCF, the commitment to enriching lives and nurturing positive change is not just a mission statement; it’s a lived reality. 

This blog post explores the essence of CCF, highlighting the roles and contributions of its staff, Board of Trustees Officers, and Trustees. Together, these individuals form the backbone of an organization that is deeply rooted in faith and driven by a passion to serve the community.

CCF Staff

The staff at the Catholic Community Foundation (CCF) are the backbone of the organization, ensuring its day-to-day operations run smoothly. They are responsible for:

  • Implementing the strategies and directives set by the Board of Trustees.
  • Managing the foundation’s programs, projects, and initiatives.
  • Engaging with stakeholders, including donors, beneficiaries, and the community.
  • Handling administrative tasks, from financial management to communications.

Meet the CCF Staff

Alison Cochrane

Position: CEO/President

Alison Cochrane leads the Catholic Community Foundation as its Chief Executive Officer and President. Joining CCF in the spring of 2021, Alison brought with her a wealth of experience from a distinguished career in various management and executive roles. Her academic journey includes a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas – Permian Basin and a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Oklahoma.

In San Antonio, Texas, Alison has been actively involved with several nonprofit organizations, notably Catholic Charities of San Antonio and the Guadalupe Community Center. She is also a devoted member of St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church.

Jennifer Poppe

Title: Operations Coordinator

Jennifer Poppe, serving as the Operations Coordinator, joined the Catholic Community Foundation in the summer of 2023. Her professional expertise encompasses contract management, procurement, and office management. Jennifer’s educational credentials include a Master of Business Administration from Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

Apart from her professional role, Jennifer is deeply committed to her community. She actively participates in her local education foundation and contributes to the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Additionally, she dedicates her time as a volunteer coach for various youth sports leagues. Jennifer is also a devoted parishioner at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Campbellton, Texas.

Board of Trustees Officers

The Board of Trustees Officers provide leadership and direction to the foundation. Their responsibilities include:

  • Setting the strategic direction and long-term vision for CCF.
  • Making key decisions on financial investments, program initiatives, and partnerships.
  • Ensuring the foundation’s activities align with its mission and values.
  • Overseeing the performance of the foundation and ensuring accountability and transparency.

Meet the CCF Board of Trustees Officers

  • Stephen M. Dufilho (Chair, Investments)
  • Frank M. Kudla, Jr. (Vice Chair and Chair Audit Committee, President & COO, FNK Ventures, L.L.C.)
  • George J. Person (Secretary, Attorney at Law, Person, Whitworth, Borchers & Morales, L.L.P.)
  • Eric C. Opiela (Treasurer, Attorney at Law)
  • Most Reverend Gustavo Garcia-Siller, M.Sp.S. (Ex-Officio, Metropolitan Archbishop of San Antonio)
  • Most Reverend Michael J. Boulette, D. Min. (Ex-Officio, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of San Antonio, Moderator of the Curia, Vicar General)

CCF Trustees

CCF Trustees play a crucial role in the governance and oversight of the foundation. Their roles encompass:

  • Providing guidance and input on the foundation’s strategies and initiatives.
  • Ensuring the foundation remains true to its mission and serves the best interests of the community.
  • Acting as ambassadors for CCF, promoting its work and fostering relationships with potential donors and partners.
  • Participating in board meetings, committees, and other governance activities to ensure the foundation’s success and sustainability.

Meet the CCF Trustees

  • Richard C. Dietz (Past Chair Investment Committee, Retired AT&T Officer)
  • Richard Kardys (Chair Investment Committee, Retired Group Vice President – Frost Bank)
  • Most Reverend Gary W. Janak, J.C.L. (Ex-Officio, Auxiliary Bishop of San Antonio Vicar General, Chancellor)
  • Father Martin J. Leopold (Pastor, Mary Mother of the Church)
  • Rick Molina (Owner, Mesquite Country Enterprises)
  • Paul Olivier (Retired Banker)
  • John Robb (Retired Banker)
  • Jennifer Rodriguez (Director of Stewardship & Development, Archdiocese of San Antonio)

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of the members of the Catholic Community Foundation, it’s clear that the organization’s strength lies in its people. The staff, Board of Trustees Officers, and Trustees collectively embody the spirit of service, leadership, and community commitment that defines CCF. Their dedication to the mission of enriching lives through faith-based initiatives is a testament to the power of collective effort and shared values. 

The CCF stands as a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration, demonstrating how faith, combined with action, can bring about meaningful change in communities. It’s a story of unity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making a difference – a story that continues to unfold with each passing day.