FALL 2024 | TOWER 13 The Kutztown University Foundation Board announced the renewal of contracts for two pivotal leadership positions within the organization. Alex Ogeka, executive director, and Ed Richmond, associate executive director and chief financial officer, have both been renewed for another four years, reaffirming their commitment to advancing the Foundation’s mission to raise funds and increase engagement to support Kutztown University’s goals. Under their leadership, the KU Foundation has achieved significant milestones, including a record-breaking fundraising campaign, strategic partnerships, and enhanced support for students and faculty. With their expertise and dedication, Ogeka and Richmond have played integral roles in fostering a culture of philanthropy and stewardship within the Kutztown community. Ogeka has held several leadership roles with the Foundation and university, dating back to 2006. He was named executive director in 2017. Richmond has been the foundation’s chief financial officer since 2009 and associate executive director since 2017. “Together, We’re Golden: The Campaign for KU,” the university’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign, raised $46,852,180 to create scholarships, bolster emergency funds, and enhance student experiences. “Alex Ogeka and Ed Richmond have demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in their respective roles," said Scott Dorn ’79, chair of the Kutztown University Foundation Board. "Their passion for advancing our mission and their unwavering dedication to serving our donors and alumni make them invaluable to our organization. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with them as we work toward a brighter future for Kutztown University.” Foundation board renews contracts for Alex Ogeka and Ed Richmond, securing continued leadership Throughout the course of the campaign, the KU Foundation: | Created 163 new scholarships for students | Identified over 10,000 new donors | Worked with donors to bring their philanthropic visions to life on campus with projects like: Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research DeLight E. Breidegam Building: HQ of the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center Fred and Martha ’02 Hafer Scanning Electron Microscope Lab Nancy Jean Stump Seiger ’54 Botanical Research Center C.R. Chambliss Astronomical Observatory Beebe Family Conference Room in the newly renovated de Francesco building | Grew its endowment to $40,000,000 Alex Ogeka Ed Richmond (Cont. from previous page) Guests enjoyed the spring football game from the Student Recreation Center’s patio, and afterward, they were invited to the field to mingle with head coach Jim Clements and the team. “It was great to have our alumni and supporters at the tailgate for the Maroon and Gold Spring Game,” Clements said. “It allowed our players to greet and thank them for all their support.” Steve Kuhn ’89, who had the opportunity to meet his scholarship recipient following the game, supports Kutztown University athletics as a gesture of gratitude toward the institution that molded his foundation. “My aim is to support athletes who may require financial assistance, as I did many years ago, and to help promote success within the athletic department.” Steve recognizes the program’s success is a collective effort, and loved the energetic atmosphere between alumni and friends who share the same passion about giving back to KU. Students today face the same struggles as students from decades prior. Jane Joyce ’65, a member of the Alumni Ambassador leadership team, and her children established the James “Bear” Joyce ’66 Football Scholarship in honor of her late husband. Jane and her son, Christopher, met this year’s recipient, Trey Bernstein ’24, after the game. “It felt gratifying to meet Trey, who benefits from Jim’s scholarship, and placing a face to the name.” Reminiscing about time spent on this football field 59 years ago and the lives that KU education and athletics provided Jane, Jim, and her family is why she continues supporting studentathletes today.
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