The Board of Directors of the Catholic Foundation for Greater Pittsburgh plays a vital role in shaping the future of our Catholic community. As stewards of our mission, Board Members are entrusted with overseeing the responsible management and distribution of all endowed funds. Together, they guide the Foundation in its commitment to sustaining the spiritual and communal life of Greater Pittsburgh—today and far into the future.
The Most Reverend Mark A. Eckman, Foundation Member Bishop of Pittsburgh
Very Rev. Thomas W. Kunz, VE, JCD, Foundation Member Moderator of the Curia, Vicar General and General Secretary for the Office of the General Secretariat
Steve Blanco President, MSA
Kathy Buechel Executive Director, The Benter Foundation
Susan Cruz Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch
Marie Milie Jones Founding Partner, JonesPassodelis
Joni Mangino Managing Partner, Zimmer Kunz
Thomas McGough Former UPMC Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer
Matthew Petnuch Board Member, Intertech Ci
Joseph Rockey Former VP, PNC Board Member, American Express
The Clergy Advisory Board (CAB) serves as a vital voice within the Catholic Foundation for Greater Pittsburgh, representing the diverse perspectives and pastoral experience of our Catholic community. As an ad hoc committee of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, this dedicated group of pastors provides thoughtful guidance through strategic feedback to the executive director, staff, and Board. Through their insight and leadership, the CAB ensures that the Foundation remains deeply rooted in the spiritual and communal needs of our faith family.
Rev. Harry Bielewicz St. Isadore the Farmer Parish
Rev. Michael Caridi Christ Our Savior Parish
Rev. Jeffrey Craig Saint Catherine Laboure Parish
Rev. Kevin Fazio, Chair All Saints Parish
Rev. Thomas Gramc Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Parish
Rev. Nicholas Vaskov Shrines of Pittsburgh, Divine Mercy Parish
Rev. James Wehner Divine Grace Parish
Rev. Brian Welding Saint Michael the Archangel Parish
Rev. Edward Yuhas Saint Katharine Drexel Parish; Saint James Parish
Rev. Paul Zywan Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish
Deacon Richard Caruso Regina Coeli Parish
Deacon Richard Cessar Saint Catherine Laboure Parish
Message From Bishop Mark Eckman
Coming soon.
Accountability and Transparency
At the Catholic Foundation for Greater Pittsburgh, we believe that stewardship is a sacred responsibility. Our commitment to accountability and transparency ensures that every gift entrusted to us is managed with integrity, clarity, and purpose. Through clear reporting, responsible governance, and open communication, we honor the trust of our donors and partners—building a foundation of faith, trust, and lasting impact.
How does the CFGP serve the Diocese of Pittsburgh?
The CFGP exists to support Catholic causes of the Greater Pittsburgh area in perpetuity. This includes parishes, ministries and services of the Diocese.
By working with the CFGP, donors can be sure investments are managed with Catholic values and grants are distributed to sustain the legacy of the Church in perpetuity.
Do I have to be Catholic to have a relationship with the CFGP?
No, we welcome relationships with all our Greater Pittsburgh community. By embracing both Catholics and non-Catholics, the CFGP can truly embody the spirit of service and love that is central to its mission.
Each parish can establish an endowment fund within the Foundation. This fund directly supports the parish in perpetuity and ensures ongoing support to be used at the discretion of the parish.
Why should I give to the Foundation instead of directly to my parish?
Both gifts to the Foundation and direct donations to your parish are valuable and impactful. Discussing your intentions with your pastor and the Foundation staff can help you determine the best giving destination based on your desired impact.
Foundation Gifts: Contributions to the Foundation, especially through endowment funds, are designed to grow over time, ensuring a lasting source of income.
Parish Gifts: Direct donations to your parish may have a more immediate impact, addressing current needs and projects.
Thank you for your generosity. We would love to have a conversation with you directly to understand your interests and walk you through making a gift. Please contact us.
How does the CFGP ensure that donations are used effectively?
We take the stewardship of your generosity seriously. Every grant distribution is carefully reviewed and approved by our Board of Directors, ensuring alignment with our mission and values.
Yes, a primary focus of the Foundation is to provide opportunities for our Catholic brothers and sisters to leave behind a Catholic legacy through planned gifts. We would love to share more with you.
The Foundation is governed by the Members and the Board of Directors. The Clergy Advisory Board is a committee of the Board made up of clergy members from across all six counties.