Edward F. Ewald named interim president of University of Illinois Foundation

URBANA, IL—The University of Illinois Foundation Board of Directors has named Edward F. Ewald, currently senior vice president for development, interim president of the Foundation effective October 18, 2014, according to UIF Board Chair Roger L. Plummer. A search will soon be launched to select a permanent replacement for outgoing Foundation President Thomas J. Farrell. 

Throughout his 22-year career with the Foundation, Ewald has served in various management and leadership positions, including campaign director for the $2.43 billion Brilliant Futures campaign. On separate occasions, he served as interim vice chancellor for institutional advancement for the Urbana campus and interim vice chancellor for development for the Chicago campus. Most importantly, he has been an integral member of the Foundation's senior leadership team as critical initiatives have been developed during the last 18 months, including the Roadmap strategic plan. 

“Ed Ewald’s appointment achieves a level of stability and continuity, sought by the Executive Committee of the Foundation’s Board,” said Plummer. “He provides vital institutional memory important to maintaining momentum on the Roadmap plan and other key initiatives that are part of the strategy to significantly enhance our level of private support.” As interim president, Ewald will have responsibility for the oversight of the Foundation's day-to-day operations and will provide leadership to the University’s overall development program, comprised of more than 400 professional and support staff.

“I am honored to assume this interim role for the Foundation as we continue to expand our engagement and fundraising efforts to ensure increased private support for all three campuses, while building a stronger culture of philanthropy,” said Ewald.

Ewald joined the Foundation in 1992 in the planned giving department, following a 12-year career as an investment advisor and financial planner, primarily with Cozad Asset Management in Champaign. During his tenure with the Foundation, Ewald has held progressively increased management roles while building relationships with donors across the country.

Ewald, 56, is a graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University. He serves on the board of directors of Kirby Medical Center and the Kirby Foundation in Monticello.

About the University of Illinois and Foundation
The University of Illinois is a world leader in research and discovery, the largest educational institution in the state with more than 78,000 students, and campuses in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield. The U of I awards more than 20,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees annually. The University of Illinois Foundation, established in 1935, is dedicated to securing and administering private gifts for the University of Illinois and its three campuses.

For additional information, contact:
Jessica Hampson | Interim Director of Marketing & Communications
University of Illinois Foundation
jhampson@uif.uillinois.edu | 217.333.0246