Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust Appoints Vice Admiral Colin J. Kilrain, USN (Ret.) to the Board of Trustees

On February 18, 2026, The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust (NYSE: GDV) announced the appointment of Vice Admiral Colin J. Kilrain, USN (Ret.), to its Board of Trustees. Kilrain, a distinguished retired Vice Admiral of the U.S. Navy, boasts an extensive military career spanning over 38 years, primarily as a Navy SEAL. He has held numerous leadership positions, including Commander of NATO Special Operations Command and Task Force Commander at the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). In his governmental roles, Kilrain has contributed to the National Security Council and has served as the Senior Military Advisor to both the CIA and the Secretary of State.

Kilrain graduated from Lehigh University and earned a Master's degree in National Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School of Defense. He has been a trustee for two other funds in the Gabelli fund complex since February 2025, enhancing his expertise and standing in the field. His term as a Trustee will continue until the 2026 annual meeting of shareholders, or until a successor is appointed.

The announcement also highlighted the departure of Anthonie C. van Ekris, who has been a Trustee since the Fund's inception in 2003 and will not seek reelection during the upcoming shareholders' meeting.

The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust, with $3.4 billion in total net assets, is committed to providing a high level of total return with a focus on dividends and income. Investors are encouraged to thoroughly evaluate the Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses prior to making investment decisions. For more information, individuals can contact investor relations at Gabelli Funds, LLC.

The appointment of Vice Admiral Colin J. Kilrain, USN (Ret.), to the Board of Trustees of The Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust (NYSE: GDV) signifies a strategic move that could enhance the Fund's positioning in the marketplace. Admiral Kilrain brings a wealth of leadership experience and a unique perspective from his distinguished military career, which may bolster the Fund's governance and risk management approach.

As a diversified closed-end management investment company with an emphasis on dividends and income, Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust aims to provide a high total return for its investors. Kilrain's appointment may inspire investor confidence, particularly among those concerned with the Fund's strategic direction and operational effectiveness. His background in high-stakes environments suggests a solid foundation for overseeing investment strategies and navigating market complexities.

Moreover, the impending transition on the Board with Anthonie C. van Ekris stepping down after more than two decades may also signal an opportunity for fresh perspectives to come into play. This shift could lead to new strategies that align with current market trends, potentially enhancing the Fund’s performance and appealing to a broader investor base.

Investors should consider the implications of these leadership changes amidst a dynamic economic environment marked by inflationary pressures and interest rate fluctuations. The Fund’s focus on income-generating investments makes it an attractive option for those seeking stability in uncertain markets. However, it's critical to remain vigilant about the risks involved and closely monitor the Fund’s performance relative to its peers.

In summary, the appointment of Vice Admiral Kilrain and the upcoming changes within the Board present an opportunity for investors to reassess the Gabelli Dividend & Income Trust’s value proposition. Potential investors should conduct due diligence, considering the Fund's investment objectives, risks, and expenses before making investment decisions.