Golden LEAF Announces Retirement Of President & CEO Scott Hamilton

ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. — The Golden LEAF Foundation has announced that President and Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton will retire at the end of 2026.

Hamilton has led the foundation since 2019, overseeing investments in economic development, workforce training and agriculture projects across rural North Carolina.

“Scott’s leadership has helped shape the direction and long-term vision of Golden LEAF,” Board Chairman Brian Raynor said in a statement. “His ability to bring people together around a shared mission has strengthened communities across North Carolina and positioned the Foundation for continued success.”

During his tenure, Golden LEAF adopted a new strategic plan and launched initiatives including NC Ag Leads, Golden LEAF Schools and the Golden LEAF SITE program.

“It has been a tremendous honor to serve as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Golden LEAF and work alongside this dedicated team,” Hamilton said. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished to move the needle in rural communities and expand economic opportunity for North Carolinians.”

The Golden LEAF Board of Directors said it will begin a search for Hamilton’s successor this summer.

Established in 1999 using funds from North Carolina’s settlement with cigarette manufacturers, Golden LEAF provides grants supporting economic opportunity in rural and tobacco-dependent communities. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded funding for more than 2,390 projects totaling approximately $1.5 billion statewide.