Erica Dayton Named the Next Executive Director of the Golisano Foundation

Rochester, New York – May 12, 2023 – Erica Dayton, Grants Manager for the Golisano Foundation since 2019, has been named the next Executive Director of the Golisano Foundation. She succeeds Ann Costello, who is retiring on June 2 after 23 years of leadership.

Dayton's appointment takes effect June 5.

She holds a Master of Science degree in Strategic Leadership from Roberts Wesleyan University, and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, both from St. John Fisher University.

The Golisano Foundation is one of the nation's leading foundations dedicated exclusively to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It was established in 1985 by Tom Golisano, the founder of Paychex, Inc., a leader in the payroll, human resource, and benefits outsourcing industry. With more than $60 million in gross assets, it awards about $3 million annually to non-profit organizations in Western New York and Southwest Florida.

Prior to joining the Foundation in 2019, Dayton served for almost 14 years at the University of Rochester in various administrative positions, including Research Administrator and Grant Accountant.

"We have appreciated Erica's hard work and commitment to the Golisano Foundation over the past few years," said Tom Golisano, Founder and Chairman of the Golisano Foundation. "With her solid knowledge of the grant management system and development of strong collaborative relationships with providers and community leaders, we know she will provide vision, direction, and inspiration to ensure the Foundation's success." 

Dayton said, "I am grateful to the Trustees for giving me this opportunity. I have had the pleasure of working under Ann Costello's leadership for four years. Her mentorship and guidance have prepared me for this next step. I look forward to building relationships to further promote inclusion and to always understand the evolving needs of those we support. I am excited to uphold the Foundation's mission of creating acceptance and opportunities and empowering individuals with IDD while always "Imagining the Possibilities!" 

Dayton lives in Penfield, New York, with her husband and daughter. 

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The Golisano Foundation is one of the largest private foundations in the U.S. dedicated to making the world a better place for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Foundation is devoted to opening doors to opportunity, changing negative perceptions and stereotypes, and forging unprecedented partnerships to ensure individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have pathways to personal dignity, independence, and the best possible expression of their abilities and talents throughout their lifetimes. Founded in 1985 by Tom Golisano—entrepreneur, philanthropist, civic leader, and founder of Paychex, Inc. —the Foundation “imagines the possibilities,” advocating for families, fighting for their dignity, and giving people with IDD the opportunity to thrive in their communities. With more than $60 million in gross assets, it awards about $3 million annually to non-profit organizations in Western New York and Southwest Florida.