News Release

• More Releases

Goodwill Veteran Takes Helm of International Board of Directors

July 12, 2005  

Rockville, MD — The Board of Directors of Goodwill Industries International, Inc., has elected Gerald L. Davis as its new chair. Davis took office during the organization’s annual Delegate Assembly, held in Appleton, WI, on June 25-28. He will serve a one-year term.

Davis first joined Goodwill in 1993 as President and CEO of Sandusky Bay Area Goodwill Industries in Ohio. Since 1998, he has served as President of Goodwill Industries of Central Texas (Austin). Under his leadership, the Austin Goodwill has doubled its total operating revenue, from $16 to $32 million. Each year, more than 8,000 people in the Austin area benefit from the Goodwill’s career programs. The Austin Goodwill has distinguished itself within the Goodwill network as a leading electronic recycler, provider of temporary services for people with disabilities and retail performer. The agency has earned the 2004 Samaritan Center Ethics in Business Award, as well as the 2002 Annie E. Casey Family Strengthening Award.

“Jerry brings to our Board the leadership experience he gained running two local Goodwill agencies,” says George W. Kessinger, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. “With that experience also comes a record of innovation and collaboration, coupled with a strong desire to do what’s best for the people Goodwill serves. He is well positioned for an outstanding year ahead.”

In addition to the Board of Directors of Goodwill Industries International, Davis has chaired the Texas Association of Goodwills, the Southwest Association of Goodwills, the Texas Association of Community Rehab Providers, the Ohio Association of Rehab Facilities, and also served on several boards and advisory groups, including those of Goodwill Global, Inc., Texas Industries for the Blind and Handicapped, University Federal Credit Union, Ohio Association of Rehabilitation, and Sandusky Area Health Education Council.

Davis began his career as an occupational therapist at the Medical College of Ohio. Over the next twelve years, he served as Vice President, Assistant Professor, CARF Accreditation Surveyor and Consultant in a variety of rehabilitation settings in Ohio and Michigan. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from The Ohio State University (1981) and a Master’s in Rehabilitation Services Administration from DePaul University (1987). He is a member of the Austin Downtown Rotary Club and is active in community affairs and his church. Davis, his wife and two children enjoy soccer, travel, and gardening.