Gina Ward joins Spotlight Delaware’s Advisory Council

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 12, 2026
Contact: Matt Sullivan, 302.354.3306  

Delaware philanthropist Gina Ward has joined Spotlight Delaware’s advisory council, where she will help guide the state’s first collaborative nonprofit newsroom as it expands coverage statewide in 2026.

In addition to lending her expertise to Spotlight’s community-powered mission, Gina and husband Rod Ward III have announced a generous $25,000 gift to the fast-growing news outlet, which now has offices in Wilmington, Dover and Georgetown. 

Gina Ward

“Rod and I believe that communities are stronger when people have access to the local news and information they need,” Gina Ward said. “Spotlight Delaware is a critical force, holding our leaders accountable, telling stories that matter, empowering Delawareans to share their ideas and concerns, and leading the way in convening conversations that build bridges among neighbors with different perspectives.” 

Together, the Wards have worked to support a variety of civic causes in Delaware, lending their time and financial backing to improving the state they call home. 

Gina Ward is a community advocate with extensive experience as a volunteer and board member, and a strong focus on health and wellness. She is vice chair of the Tower Hill School board of trustees, and a member of the boards of the Delaware Community Foundation and Rodney Street Tennis & Tutoring. She has previously served on the boards of Nemours Delaware and St. Francis Hospital, as well as the Delaware’s Health Resources Board.

Rod Ward is president and CEO of CSC, a global business, legal, and financial services company based in Wilmington. He is also a leader in the community, serving as a trustee for the University of Delaware, a member of the executive committee of Delaware Business Roundtable, and as a member on numerous other boards. 

The Wards said they support Spotlight Delaware because of its role in holding government accountable, advancing informed civic engagement and convening civil discourse.

“We are honored that the Wards support our mission to give Delawareans greater access to strong, independent local news and information,” said Allison Taylor Levine, publisher and CEO of Spotlight Delaware. “Gina and Rod are great advocates for Delaware and share our passion for engaging and empowering people with the information they need to fully participate in the conversations that shape Delaware’s future.”

Spotlight’s advisory council is composed of accomplished leaders from across the state’s corporate, nonprofit and philanthropic landscape. In conjunction with Spotlight’s governing board of directors, the advisors help guide strategic direction as the newsroom develops a sustainable business model and continues its mission to inform, engage and empower Delawareans with local news and information.

About Spotlight Delaware

Spotlight Delaware is an independent nonprofit on a mission to engage, empower and connect Delawareans with local news and information. We envision a Delaware where all neighbors have access to the local news and information they need to thrive on a daily basis, participate in local democracy and engage with their communities. Sign up for our free newsletter at spotlightdelaware.org/newsletters, and donate at spotlightdelaware.org/support