David Woodyard was announced as the new chief executive officer of Catholic Charities of Dallas on Feb. 29 at the Catholic Charities offices. (BEN TORRES/Special Contributor)
By Cathy Harasta
The Texas Catholic
Catholic Charities of Dallas on Feb. 29 announced that the organization has named David Woodyard, a veteran international businessman and active community volunteer, as its chief executive officer to oversee the next growth chapter of the mission-focused agency.
The charity, which ranks among greater Dallas’ largest social service organizations, encompasses 17 programs serving more than 30,000 children, families and seniors in need annually.
“I want to see the Diocese of Dallas and the Dallas community work in a very collaborative way to serve those in need in a very efficient and effective manner,” said Woodyard, who is a parishioner at All Saints Catholic Church. “I am extremely excited to work with this team of dedicated and capable professionals in serving our community.”
Woodyard, who spent 22 years in executive positions at ClubCorp, most recently served as a service industry consultant.
As ClubCorp’s executive vice president of business development and operations, he was responsible for more than 4,000 employees and generating $175 million in revenue for the company, which is the world leader in private club management.
Woodyard, 58, said that he traveled to many parts of the world when his ClubCorp responsibilities included overseeing international development and hospitality in many contexts. A key mission of Catholic Charities is welcoming the stranger.
“I got exposed to all kinds of different cultures on trips to India, the Middle East, Asia and Europe,” he said. “I like to see people light up with having their needs met, whatever they may be.”
Bishop Kevin J. Farrell commended the selection of Woodyard, whose hiring was effective Feb. 29.
“I believe the Catholic Charities board of directors has done an outstanding job in selecting a proven leader such as Dave Woodyard,” Bishop Farrell said. “I know his expertise will help Catholic Charities Dallas reach even more people in need with life-changing assistance.”
Catholic Charities’ Chief Financial Officer Joe Brogdon, who also served as the agency’s acting CEO since June 2015, said that he is excited about Woodyard’s leadership, caring attitude toward clients and employees, and the direction in which he will guide the charity.
“I couldn’t be happier,” Brogdon said. “He’s very engaging and personable. He takes the time to listen and to reflect. He has the heart for service.”
In addition to his robust business-growth track record, Woodyard’s background includes a commitment to community service, having served in board positions at The Catholic Foundation and Bishop Dunne Catholic School, as well as committee roles with All Saints Catholic Church and the North Texas Food Bank.
Cheryl Unis Mansour, vice president of Development for The Catholic Foundation, said that Woodyard’s service as a member of the foundation’s board of trustees, advisory council member and chairman of several committees prepared him well for his new position.
“He brought professional skills to the table and a different perspective,” she said. “His expertise was very helpful. I think that his participation as a trustee in the distribution area has really helped him get to know the needs of the diocese.”
Woodyard grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and attended Ohio State University.
He and his wife, Kathleen, live in Dallas and have five children and five grandchildren.
“Catholic Charities is thrilled to have someone of David’s caliber and service expertise joining our organization,” CCD Board President Bob McDermott said. “He’s a true servant leader and we believe he will do great things.”
charasta@cathdal.org
