Goodman Community Center is pleased to announce that Christopher Talton has been selected as the organization’s next President, beginning on Monday, April 20, 2026.

“I’m delighted to welcome Chris to Goodman Community Center. From its origins in a few cramped rooms as the Atwood Community Center, Goodman has grown into a force for good across all of Madison, and we knew we needed someone truly special to lead us forward. In Chris, I’m confident we've found exactly the right combination of professional experience and personal passion to build on our past and meet the opportunities ahead.” — Rebecca Gerothanas, President, Goodman Community Center's Board of Directors

Chris brings more than a decade of distinguished leadership in community focused nonprofits, with a focus on strengthening organizations, developing people, and expanding community impact. Prior to joining Goodman Community Center, he served as Vice President of Retail at Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin, where he helped connect workforce development and community-based programming to sustainable funding through retail and donation operations. Chris has also held leadership roles with Goodwill of Greater Milwaukee & Chicago and served as Chief Operating Officer at Continental Sales, supporting programs that create employment opportunities and pathways for individuals and families.

Chris holds an Executive MBA from Marquette University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Iowa Wesleyan College. He has also completed various executive leadership development programs focused on continuous learning. Chris was born in the Atlanta area and credits his local community center with playing a significant role in his youth.

The public is invited to meet Chris in person during Goodman’s upcoming Be the Good Fundraising Dinner on Friday, May 8; followed by a free Evening Community Chat on Tuesday, May 19, at 5:30 pm; and a free Morning Community Chat on Thursday, May 21, at 9 am.

Chris says, “I am deeply honored to join Goodman Community Center. The work happening here — securing food, supporting children and families, caring for older adults, creating space where people belong — is the kind of mission I have devoted my career to. The opportunity to contribute to that, alongside such a committed team and community, is one I do not take lightly. I am energized, I am ready, and I simply cannot wait to get started.”

The GCC board of directors, staff, and supporters are excited to welcome Chris to Goodman, and to continue the center’s more than 70-year tradition of excellence: serving the Madison community, strengthening lives, and securing futures.

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