William Generett Jr.

A New Chapter for Pittsburgh's Premier Community Foundation

The Pittsburgh Foundation — one of the nation's oldest and largest community foundations, managing over $1.1 billion in assets — has named William Generett Jr. as its seventh president and CEO. The announcement, made following a rigorous five-month national search, signals a bold new direction for an institution that has been a cornerstone of civic investment in the Pittsburgh region for more than 80 years.

Generett, a Pittsburgh native, brings to the role a career that spans entrepreneurship, higher education, and public policy — all anchored by a consistent focus on economic inclusion and community-driven development. His appointment is widely seen as a signal that the Foundation intends to deepen its commitment to equity-centered grantmaking and community investment.

“Pittsburgh has bold aspirations for its future. By bringing together fundholders, nonprofits, civic leaders, and community members, we’ll help more people thrive in this region.”

Building Urban Innovation21

Before joining Duquesne University, Generett founded Urban Innovation21 in 2009 — a nationally recognized initiative that used Pittsburgh's Hill District as a laboratory for inclusive economic development. Over eight years, the program created more than 500 jobs, attracted $15 million in technology incentives, and became a model replicated in cities across the country. The initiative earned Duquesne University a prestigious Carnegie Community Engagement Classification — one of only 40 institutions nationwide to receive the designation at the time.

Higher Education and the IGNITE Campaign

As Senior Vice President at Duquesne University, Generett played a central role in the institution's landmark IGNITE campaign, which raised over $335 million — the largest fundraising effort in the university's history. His work bridged academic resources with community needs, reinforcing Duquesne's identity as an anchor institution committed to the neighborhoods surrounding it.

National Recognition and Public Service

Generett's work has drawn recognition at the highest levels of government and civic life. In 2014, he was appointed to the U.S. Department of Commerce National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship. In 2018, Governor Tom Wolf appointed him to the Pennsylvania Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority. He holds a bachelor's degree from Morehouse College and a law degree from Emory University School of Law.

Career Highlights