CAC Board Spotlight: Don Duffey

“At the heart of CAC’s success are board members who are not only mission-driven but deeply engaged in our work every step of the way. Don Duffey is a shining example of what it means to be a truly supportive board member,” said CAC CEO Melanie Pignotti, "which is why we want to shine the CAC Board Spotlight on Don."

“Don consistently demonstrates a clear and unwavering commitment to our mission through his time, presence and thoughtful engagement,” Pignotti continued. “As a generous donor, dedicated fundraiser and strategic thinker, Don plays a vital role in our growth and impact.”

Roy Picciuca, CAC’s outgoing board chairperson echoed that assessment. “Don is a driving force to the CAC board, always willing to take on additional responsibilities including chairing the strategic planning committee and chairing the CAC Root Beer Float Run. Don is also an important member of our fund development committee and a great overall financial supporter of the CAC,” Picciuca explained.

Duffey has lived in the northwest suburbs since graduating from Northern Illinois University. He and his wife, Amy, live in Arlington Heights where they’ve raised their three children. With 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, Duffey currently works at Zurich North America leading an Information Technology team focused on quality assurance. “I love the art and science of project management and have been fortunate enough to grow in this space over the years,” he shared.

Duffey initially connected with CAC through Zurich North America’s Community Investment network. He was an inaugural member of CAC’s Emerging Leaders board, serving for several years before taking a short break. Duffey reconnected with CAC in 2023, joining the Board of Directors and jumping into committee work with energy and purpose.

“I became part of the Fund Development and Legislative committees and currently lead the Strategic Planning committee,” Duffey shared, “where we have just drafted the three-year strategic plan for the CAC’s fiscal years 2026 – 2029. I am fortunate enough to have strong mentors and supporters on the Board, and the passion of the board members is very inspiring to me.”

CAC board member Don Duffey wearing his 5K/10K chairperson hat.

Pignotti has gotten to know Duffey well over the years, particularly through his leadership of the strategic planning process. “What makes Don especially special is that he’s a joy to work with, bringing positivity, humor and purpose to everything he does,” Pignotti said. “He listens with intention, and his genuine desire to understand makes everyone around him feel heard, valued and respected.”

“I care deeply about CAC’s mission and vision,” Duffey affirmed, “and clearly see the positive impact they have on families around me. Supporting an organization that is making a difference in the community my family and I live in is one of the many reasons I’m happy to be serving the organization.”