Medina County Community Foundation names new executive director

The Medina County Community Foundation has announced the appointment of Alan Penn as its new executive director, bringing with him decades of leadership experience, deep community roots and a lifelong commitment to service in Medina County.

A longtime Medina resident, Penn is widely recognized for both his professional expertise and his extensive involvement in local and statewide nonprofit initiatives. His career spans more than 50 years across education, community leadership and nonprofit management, including serving as executive director of the Ohio District Kiwanis Foundation, where he led significant organizational growth and expanded philanthropic impact.

Penn’s background reflects a strong foundation in organizational development, strategic growth and community engagement. Under his leadership, the Ohio District Kiwanis Foundation grew its portfolio from $250,000 to more than $3.5 million, while expanding grantmaking programs and strengthening donor engagement. His experience in building sustainable systems and fostering collaborative leadership will be instrumental as the Medina County Community Foundation continues to grow its reach and impact.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Penn’s commitment to Medina County is evident through decades of service, including roles on Medina City Council, leadership in United Way campaigns and involvement in numerous community organizations and initiatives. His passion for strengthening communities and improving the lives of others aligns closely with the foundation’s mission.

“We are thrilled to welcome Alan as our new executive director,” board president Dan Calvin said. “His deep roots in Medina County, combined with his undeniable passion for this community, make him the ideal leader for the foundation. Alan brings not only extensive nonprofit experience, but also a genuine commitment to the people and organizations that make our county so special.”

Penn will focus on advancing the foundation’s mission by strengthening relationships with donors, nonprofits and community partners, while continuing to grow resources that support meaningful, long-term impact across Medina County.

“I am honored to serve in this role and to continue working in a community that has meant so much to me throughout my life,” Penn said. “The Medina County Community Foundation plays a vital role in connecting generosity with need, and I look forward to helping build upon that legacy for future generations.”

The Medina County Community Foundation works to improve the quality of life in Medina County by connecting donors with causes that matter and supporting nonprofits that serve the community. Through strategic grantmaking, donor engagement and community partnerships, the foundation helps turn generosity into lasting impact across Medina County.

For more information, visit medinaccf.org.