Talcott retiring as Goodwill president/CEO
After 21 years as president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Wayne and Holmes Counties, Judy Talcott will retire in May.
Judy Talcott, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Wayne and Holmes Counties, recently announced her upcoming retirement in May on her 21st anniversary in the leadership role.
“The board is grateful for Judy’s leadership and timeless work ethic over the last 27 years. She has been instrumental in growing Goodwill Industries of Wayne and Holmes Counties’ three divisions: retail, industrial and mission. Her passion for the mission and advocacy of financial stability are appreciated throughout the organization and by the board. Judy’s legacy will endure, and we wish her the best as she begins a new chapter,” said Christy VanSickle, current chair of the GIWHC Board of Trustees.
During Talcott’s tenure as CEO of Goodwill, people served by Goodwill Mission Services Department (job training/career services) grew 280%, from 537-2,041 people each year. Net assets for the organization grew 187%, from $3,118,257-$8,970,919, and revenue sprouted 64%, rising from $5,082,142-$8,331,262 in 2023.
Talcott’s dedication and work ethic have been instrumental in the operational success of GIWHC. Her leadership not only propelled the organization forward, but also left a lasting mark on its culture and mission. With a career spanning over 25 years at Goodwill, celebrated by the 25-Year Service Award from Goodwill Industries International, she has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and financial stability.
Talcott’s achievements also include the Leadership Wooster Alumni Award (2008), Athena Leadership Award (2013) and George W. Hickson Award (2014, Kiwanis).
“It has been my honor and privilege to lead this vital organization for the last 20 years,” Talcott said. “Goodwill will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will remain an advocate for the tremendous work this very special organization does in our community. We have been a part of so many success stories over the years, helping to transform generations by providing opportunities for people in communities who face obstacles to sustainable employment.
“I have been blessed to work with so many awesome colleagues over the years, and I have appreciated their friendship, partnership and dedication to making the communities we serve better places.”
“Judy has been an incredible example, not only for nonprofit leaders, but all leaders in our community,” said Kyle Adams, a past GIWHC board chair and advocate of Goodwill. “She has set the bar on both professionalism and work ethic, partnering with our community while also spending countless hours throughout her career behind the scenes, always looking to further the mission she set out to promote and lead over 20 years ago. Congratulations to Judy, and I look forward to watching her enjoy her next chapter.”
The board of trustees for GIWHC is actively recruiting a new president/CEO for the organization and looks forward to celebrating with Talcott during the GIWHC community breakfast and annual meeting on May 2. This event is free to the public. Visit www.goodwillconnect.org/annualmeeting for more information and to RSVP.