
Share:
Over the course of six decades, Greater Cincinnati Foundation (GCF) has had the honor of working with generations of generous community champions who have poured their time, talent, and treasure into creating a more vibrant and opportunity-rich region. Their collective impact has been extraordinary, with over $1.88 billion flowing through GCF, coupled with thousands of hours of volunteer service to create lasting and sustained change.
We proudly recognize three of these remarkable individuals each year through our Jacob E. Davis Volunteer Leadership Award, Bridge Builder Award, and The Devou Cup.
Jacob E. Davis Volunteer Leadership Award
Mike and Digi Schueler
The Jacob E. Davis Volunteer Leadership Award is presented annually by GCF to recognize volunteers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, vision, creativity, and generosity of spirit. Jacob E. Davis served as GCF’s first Governing Board chairman and the Foundation’s volunteer director from 1978 to 1987.
This year’s recipients are Mike and Digi Schueler. Together, Mike and Digi have served numerous organizations, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural and civic fabric of Greater Cincinnati.
Mike, President and CEO of Schueler Group, created a leading real estate, development, and construction enterprise that drives regional growth, along with projects in 15 other states throughout the Eastern U.S. Mike has received the University of Cincinnati College of Engineering & Applied Science’s Engineering Technology Award of Distinction, highlighting his commitment to excellence and community impact throughout his career. Mike has also been awarded the Little Miami Conservancy’s 30 Years of Service Award and recognized with the Mt. St. Joseph University Cornerstone Award as the longest-serving non-clergy member.
Digi has spent more than 35 years in Cincinnati after relocating from Houston for her career—and in doing so, launched a lifetime of civic engagement. Digi has earned numerous awards for her heartfelt leadership, including Philanthropist of the Year by the Cincinnati chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Enquirer Woman of the Year, and the 4C Champion for Children award.
She is widely recognized for her broad contributions across arts, education, and social justice, as well as her decades of leadership with the Junior League of Cincinnati.
Bridge Builder Award
Kelly Wittich
Each year, GCF presents the Bridge Builder Award, which recognizes a professional advisor who has demonstrated enduring support for GCF and exemplifies the spirit of partnership, philanthropy, and community leadership.
Kelly Wittich is this year’s Bridge Builder Award recipient. Kelly works as a financial advisor with FTB Financial Services at UBS Financial Services Inc.* in Kenwood, Ohio. In line with her client-centered approach, Kelly provides comprehensive guidance to families across the country, helping them navigate complex financial decisions with empathy and clarity.
In the community, Kelly has served for over a decade on the board of ProKids, including as board president. She also serves on the ArtsWave Board of Trustees and its Women’s Leadership Roundtable, championing the arts as a cornerstone of civic life.
In addition, Wittich and her family founded FOATY (From Our Angels to Yours), a nonprofit honoring the memory of her niece and nephew. Since 2008, FOATY has raised over $650,000 to support local children through scholarships and emergency grants, further demonstrating her belief in the power of generosity to transform lives.
The Devou Cup
Jeanne Schroer
The Devou Cup was established in 2004 by GCF’s Northern Kentucky Fund to recognize the generous contributions of individuals who have made a significant impact on the quality of community life in Northern Kentucky.
This year’s Cup recipient is Jeanne Schroer, President & CEO of The Catalytic Fund. The Catalytic Fund has raised $32 million in private capital to make quality investments in
Northern Kentucky that enhance regional economic and community development. These investments have attracted a whopping $450 million in new investment in Northern Kentucky since 2013 – funding notable projects like Hotel Covington, the Kent Lofts, and more.
Jeanne has also been recognized for her work in the community, receiving the Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Award, 2024 Kenton County Pioneer Award, 2022 YWCA Career Women of Achievement Award, and many others. She was inducted into the NKY Business Hall of Fame in 2025.
GCF is deeply inspired and grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with so many visionary and generous individuals. It is these remarkable partnerships that fuel our work to create a vibrant region where everyone has a fair opportunity to thrive.
*UBS Financial Services Inc is not affiliated with GCF or any of the third-party entities mentioned. For our client relationship summary disclosures, please visit ubs.com/relationshipsummary. UBS Financial Services Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Review code IS2500871 Expiration 7/31/2026