The Charles F. Kettering Foundation disclosed that it has acquired the historic Waitman Building, located on East Fifth Street in Dayton’s Oregon District. The purchase marks a strategic move to bring the nonprofit’s headquarters closer to the city’s civic, cultural, and academic partners.
Why the Downtown Move Matters
“Moving downtown gives us an opportunity to be more present and accessible in our home city, deepen relationships with local partners, and create a place where ideas and experiences from Dayton can connect with conversations about democracy happening across the country and around the world,” said Sharon L. Davies, president and CEO of the Kettering Foundation, in a statement released with the announcement.
Board chair Sherry Magill described the relocation as “an investment in the future of the foundation,” emphasizing the long‑term benefits for both the organization and the surrounding community.
Renovation Plans and Timeline
The foundation intends to renovate the Waitman Building to accommodate its staff and programmatic needs. While the current office sits on Commons Road, the new headquarters are slated to be operational by the fall of 2028. The renovation will preserve the building’s historic character while updating interior spaces for modern use.
Impact on the Oregon District
City leaders and local business owners have welcomed the news, noting that the foundation’s presence is likely to spur additional investment in the Oregon District. The area, known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene, stands to benefit from increased foot traffic and the potential for new collaborations between the foundation and nearby nonprofits, universities, and cultural institutions.
“The Kettering Foundation’s commitment to downtown Dayton reinforces our city’s reputation as a hub for ideas and civic engagement,” said a representative from the Dayton Chamber of Commerce. “Projects like this help preserve our heritage while fostering economic growth.”
Community Reactions
Local residents expressed optimism that the renovation will enhance the district’s aesthetic appeal and provide new opportunities for community events. Some longtime Daytoners recalled the Waitman Building’s role in the city’s early 20th‑century development and praised the foundation’s effort to maintain its historic integrity.
“It’s wonderful to see a respected institution caring for a piece of our city’s history,” said a nearby café owner. “We look forward to the increased activity and the chance to partner on community initiatives.”
Looking Ahead
As the Kettering Foundation prepares for the transition, it will continue its work on research and public‑policy projects aimed at strengthening democracy. The move downtown aligns with its mission to foster dialogue among citizens, scholars, and policymakers.
Stakeholders anticipate that the foundation’s new headquarters will become a gathering place for workshops, lectures, and collaborative projects that draw participants from across Ohio and beyond.
For updates on the renovation progress and upcoming events at the new site, the foundation encourages the public to follow its official communications channels.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
