Celebrating Darryl Olson
Join us in celebrating Darryl Olson’s contributions to Foellinger Foundation! After over 20 years of service to the Foundation, Darryl will retire in early 2026.
Darryl joined Foellinger Foundation in 2005 as Director of Finance and Administration. In 2013, he was promoted to Chief Financial Officer, a role he’ll have held for 13 years at the time of his retirement. He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, the Indiana CPA Society, Financial Executives International, and the Foundation Financial Officers Group.
In his role as CFO, Darryl manages the financial sustainability of the Foundation. He oversees all financial operations, including strategy, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and ensuring compliance with regulations and grant requirements. His knowledge and expertise guide long-term financial planning, working to increase financial transparency and accountability.
He has been instrumental in guiding his team, collaborating with the Board and Investment and Finance Committee, and developing forecasting models that align the Foundation’s financial strategy with its community grantmaking. Darryl’s thoughtful approach to financial review and analysis for grantees has ensured that funding remains both fiscally responsible and mission-driven, while his ability to connect financial strategy with community impact reflects his holistic leadership style.
Among his most significant contributions, Darryl reset the Foundation’s strategic asset allocation to maximize growth and enhance long-term impact. He most recently led the transition to an Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) model—strengthening engagement with the Investment and Finance Committee and positioning the Foundation for future success.
After two decades in the nonprofit sector, Darryl said that what has mattered most isn’t the policies or programs—it’s the people. Reflecting on his time with Foellinger Foundation, he shared, “The biggest impact for me has been meeting the people at nonprofit organizations who are making a difference in people’s lives. They are so passionate about serving those in need and don’t receive the credit they deserve. Knowing that our work supports these organizations has been very rewarding.”
Looking back on Darryl’s years of service, Foellinger Foundation President and CEO Sarah Strimmenos recalled their first collaboration and the steady commitment he has shown ever since: “I first worked with Darryl when I led the Foundation’s audit 20 years ago. He consistently brings donor intent and the Foellinger family’s founding principles to the forefront of decision-making, ensuring that the Foundation’s financial strategy reflects the mission and honors the legacy it was built upon.”
Darryl and his wife are looking forward to the exciting life changes and new adventures retirement will bring. They are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first grandchild in November 2025. They also plan to spend time traveling, exploring national parks, and reconnecting with relatives and friends. Among their upcoming adventures is a long-anticipated Alaskan cruise.
Congratulations, Darryl Olson, on your well-earned retirement. We wish you all the best in this next exciting chapter!