In an unexpected leadership shakeup at the Kolbe Foundation, chief executive George Gomez has stepped down from his post just seven weeks after assuming the position, multiple sources confirmed to local outlet News Five on July 9, 2026.
Longtime Kolbe Foundation staff member Francis Woods has stepped into the role as interim chief executive while the organization launches a formal search for a permanent successor to Gomez. The sudden nature of Gomez’s exit has sparked widespread questions surrounding the circumstances of his departure and the future direction of the foundation under temporary leadership. In a phone interview with News Five, reporter Paul Lopez pressed Woods for details on the sudden leadership change.
“George Gomez is no longer employed by the Kolbe Foundation,” Woods confirmed in the interview. He noted that the foundation has a long history of leadership turnover, and that the organization has benefited from the contributions of every chief executive that has led the institution. “All of the positive initiatives that Gomez launched during his time here will continue moving forward, and we are grateful for the service he provided to the Kolbe Foundation,” Woods added.
When pressed to disclose a specific reason for Gomez’s departure, Woods offered only a vague explanation, saying “it just was not working out.” He emphasized that his own appointment is strictly temporary, and that he remains familiar with the foundation’s operational procedures after being part of the organization since its founding. For the interim period, Woods said the core mission of the foundation will remain unchanged: to operate a humane, secure correctional facility focused on delivering meaningful rehabilitation and successful reintegration support for the people in its care.
In a separate press statement released the same day, Gomez reflected on his short tenure at the head of the foundation, highlighting the work he had done to advance the organization’s core mission and vision. However, Gomez also confirmed that leadership did not share with him the official reason for his dismissal, leaving key details of the shakeup unresolved.
This report is a transcribed excerpt from News Five’s evening television broadcast, which is available to view in full on the outlet’s digital platform.