Greater Dayton has lost a passionate community champion, philanthropist and visionary leader with the passing of former Dayton Foundation Governing Board member, longtime supporter and fund holder, Clay Mathile. The former IAMS CEO and founder of Aileron passed away on August 26, 2023, at age 82.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Clay Mathile, whose innovative and thoughtful leadership was instrumental in helping to launch so many critical efforts that have changed our region for the better,” said Mike Parks, CFRE, president of The Dayton Foundation. “Our hearts go out to his family but especially to his wife, MaryAnn, with whom he created a legacy of good for Greater Dayton and beyond.”
The Mathile Family Foundation was cofounded in 1987 by Clay and MaryAnn and has had significant impact on the lives of children and families in need throughout our region and around the world. It has a rich history of tradition of collaboration and has partnered with The Dayton Foundation and others on many impactful community initiatives. These include efforts that are working to build a more equitable community for all, such as Crayons to Classrooms, a free store for teachers of students in need; the Nonprofit Capacity-Building Partnership, an effort to strengthen African-American led and serving organizations; and Learn to Earn Dayton, a cradle-to-career initiative to help our ensure all learners in the Dayton Region have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. In addition, the Mathiles have been longtime Dayton Foundation fund holders, supporting various causes important to them, such as the PACE scholarship program, which awarded scholarships for students in need to attend K-12 schools.
Read more about the far-reaching impact of Clay Mathile’s remarkable life, work and charitable legacy here.