MADISON, Wis., October 21, 2025 – Madison Community Foundation (MCF) today announced that Bob Sorge, who has served the organization for 18 years – including 13 as President and CEO – will retire at the end of 2026. Sorge will leave a legacy of growth, innovation and commitment to building a more vibrant and equitable Greater Madison.
“Leading the community’s foundation has been an extraordinary honor,” said Sorge. “I have always approached this role with deep gratitude. The generosity of the people we serve is truly inspiring, and it’s been a joy to connect that generosity to the future of our community.”
Since becoming President and CEO in 2013, Sorge has led MCF through a period of remarkable growth. The Foundation’s assets have increased from $135 million to nearly $500 million — including $400 million in core assets — while its Legacy Society, which honors donors who make planned gifts, has tripled in size.
Beyond financial growth, Sorge has championed a broader, more strategic approach to philanthropy. Under his leadership, MCF expanded its work beyond grantmaking to include impact investing, research, advocacy and nonprofit capacity building. Key initiatives launched during his tenure include:
- Founding support for the Clean Lakes Alliance.
- Strategic investments in South Park Street corridor nonprofits to support facilities, staff and programming.
- Funding for the design competition that led to the creation of Madison’s Lake Way.
- Helping local nonprofits secure $27 million in federal Paycheck Protection Program funding during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Development of the Goodman Nonprofit Center.
“Bob leads with vision, compassion and integrity,” said Anne Lucke, Chair of the MCF Board of Governors. “His ability to inspire confidence, foster lasting partnerships and remain grounded in MCF’s values has made him an exceptional leader. We are grateful for his service.”
Noble Wray, Board Vice Chair, added: “Bob has built a strong foundation for MCF’s future. With ample time for a thoughtful transition, we’re well-positioned to find a strong successor who can build on his legacy.”
In 2026, MCF will continue advancing its strategic priorities, including completing the inaugural year of the Goodman Fellows program, reviewing and refining its grantmaking focus, and preparing for a seamless leadership transition.
“We have a thoughtful, engaged Board and a smart, ambitious staff,” said Sorge. “It’s the right time for this transition.”
The MCF Board of Governors’ Executive Committee will oversee the search process, engaging a national executive search firm to identify the Foundation’s next President and CEO. A formal search will launch in early 2026, with the goal of onboarding new leadership by the end of the year. Sorge will remain in his role throughout the transition to ensure continuity and support.
