Q & A with our new CEO Don Taylor
CCSCC CEO Don Taylor, who began in his role on December 1, 2024, at the 14th Annual Unhoused Health Fair at San Jose City Hall.
What have your first few months in your new role been like for you? Any surprises or challenges?
It has been a whirlwind – and an absolute joy! The scope of what Catholic Charities does in the community is absolutely incredible, and seeing our programs in action really underscores the significant needs of our neighbors living in poverty. While I would not say there have been surprises, there are new challenges to some of our services, particularly as parts of the economy struggle (which affects our funding contracts) and as the new federal administration shifts priorities.
What is certain is that we will navigate these times successfully by relying on our foundational Catholic social teachings to guide us.
What unique experiences or insights from your previous roles will be most valuable in leading CCSCC?
I bring significant career experience in mental health, social service, juvenile justice, foster care, and educational services. What that has taught me is the importance of engaging people and meeting them where they are, and remaining committed to caring for the whole person throughout the service process. Catholic Charities certainly holds these values, and I believe I can help the agency bring focus to further integrating our incredible array of services. The Footsteps Initiative is an extremely exciting example of this!
How do you balance your decision-making between data-driven analysis and intuition?
Data is critical to decisions, and so are process and experience. Data will guide most decisions, but intuition always plays a role. Some situations and opportunities are untested, requiring decisions based on multiple factors. However, once a decision is implemented, then data and outcomes will greatly inform the path forward.
What is your personal leadership philosophy, and how will it be reflected in your actions as CEO?
I am a firm believer in bringing out the best in people. As a licensed clinical social worker, I have a “person-in-environment” foundation, which essentially means everything is connected – from micro to macro levels. In leadership, this translates to pulling the best from different influences and approaches, including Stephen Covey’s principles, The Leadership Challenge (by Posner and Kouzes), Patrick Lencioni’s The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, and the philosophy of Servant Leadership. I combine this with Catholic social teaching and a commitment to diversity, culture, and understanding historical impacts. Collectively, this can create a powerful work environment.
How does your faith guide your work and leadership style?
Social justice is at my core and guides how I live my life. This deeply aligns with my Catholic faith and shapes my leadership approach.
