News & Stories
Community Foundation Welcomes Two New Board Directors
Image description: The left portrait shows Tom in a dark suit with a red tie and a blue background, while the right portrait depicts Mark in a checkered shirt, striped tie, and a dark jacket with a neutral background. The design includes the GTRCF's logo and decorative elements, with the headline: "Welcome New Board Directors!"
The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation welcomes two new community members to its Board of Directors, the organization’s voluntary governing body comprised of individuals from across the region. New Community Foundation board directors include Tom Kaczynski, of Grand Traverse County, and Mark Wilson, of Grand Traverse County and an enrolled citizen of the Grand Traverse Band (GTB) of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.
Tom Kaczynski retired in 2023 as an executive officer of Marathon Petroleum Corporation, a Fortune 25 oil and gas corporation and the largest oil refiner in North America. While at Marathon Petroleum, Tom served as Senior Vice President, Finance and Treasurer. He also served as Senior Vice President, Finance and Treasurer for MPLX GP LLC. Prior to joining Marathon Petroleum in 2015, he served as Vice President and Treasurer of The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, where he had responsibility for all treasury related activities. Tom earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Michigan State University in 1985, a Master of Science in Engineering from Oklahoma State University in 1987, and a Master of Business Administration in International Business and Finance from the University of Chicago in 1992.
“I very much look forward to working with the Community Foundation leadership team and Board of Directors as the Foundation continues to grow and evolve,” said Kaczynski. “The role that this organization plays is decidedly important and touches many people’s lives. I therefore feel fortunate to be able to contribute to its ongoing success.”
Mark Wilson’s background is in multimedia, entertainment, and leadership. He is a lifelong DJ with a love of Hip Hop Culture and the production of organic and classic boom-bap instrumentals. His education includes: graduate of the Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences with certifications in Logic Pro and Pro Tools, a degree in Visual Communications and Liberal Studies, and a Masters in Public Administration. Mark's background in public service includes two terms on the GTB Tribal Council, Traverse City City Commission, and various boards and committees.
“As a Board Director, I’m eager to explore innovative ways to amplify community voices, particularly those that have historically been underrepresented. I’m excited about advancing initiatives that preserve our natural resources, foster economic opportunity, and celebrate the cultural vibrancy of the area—especially through programs that uplift Indigenous knowledge and traditions,” said Wilson. “Most of all, I’m inspired by the potential to make a lasting impact, ensuring that the Grand Traverse region continues to be a place where everyone can thrive.”
To learn more about the Community Foundation’s Board of Directors, visit: https://www.gtrcf.org/about/board-of-directors.html.