Kutztown University Foundation Board Renews Contracts for Alex Ogeka and Ed Richmond, Securing Continued Leadership

KUTZTOWN, Pa. – (April 22, 2024) – The Kutztown University Foundation Board announces 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. 

Throughout the course of the campaign, the 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 and Ed Richmond have demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in their respective roles,” said Scott Dorn, 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 towards a brighter future for Kutztown University.”

As executive director, Ogeka oversees the foundation’s overall strategic direction, fundraising and alumni engagement initiatives, and donor relations efforts. His innovative approach and collaborative spirit have propelled the Foundation to new heights, solidifying its position as a leader in philanthropy within the higher education landscape.

“I am honored to continue serving as executive director of the Kutztown University Foundation,” said Ogeka. “I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside a talented team of staff, volunteers, and supporters who share a deep commitment to the success of Kutztown University. Together, we will build upon our achievements and continue to drive transformational change for our students and community.”

Ed Richmond, as associate executive director and CFO, plays a vital role in overseeing the Foundation’s financial management, budgeting, operational efficiency, and stewardship of assets and resources. His strategic financial leadership ensures the Foundation’s long-term sustainability and fiscal responsibility.

“I am excited to continue my work as associate executive director and CFO,” said Richmond. “I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me by the Foundation Board and the entire Kutztown community, and I am eager to continue our work to empower students, enhance academic excellence, and create opportunities for success.”

The renewal of contracts for Alex Ogeka and Ed Richmond reflects the Foundation Board’s commitment to maintaining stability, continuity, and excellence in leadership. As Kutztown University embarks on its next chapter of growth and innovation, the foundation remains steadfast in its support of the university’s mission to inspire excellence and transform lives.

The KU Foundation has been raising funds to support the students, faculty, programs, and capital needs of Kutztown University since 1983. The Foundation is a private non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and all gifts to the foundation are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.

For more information about the Kutztown University Foundation, please visit www.kuf.org.