Overview
The Governors State University Foundation was established in 1968 as the University's primary fundraising division. Officially incorporated as a not-for-profit organization, the GovState Foundation fosters relationships with philanthropic individuals, GovState Alumni, and numerous corporate and foundation partners on behalf of the University.
The Governors State University Foundation is the official fundraising and private gift-receiving agency for the University that allows us to make progress toward these goals.
Contributions received by the GovState Foundation support academic programs, scholarships for students, faculty development and research, capital improvements to the campus, library acquisitions, technology enhancements, and other special initiatives.
Through the Alumni Association, we provide networking, professional development, leadership opportunities, and mentoring to current Governors State University students.
These alumni are shaping the future of the GovState community, our students, and the wider community through engagement, advocacy, and financial contributions.
With approximately 90% of alumni residing in nearby communities, it is my goal to unify the area and build a bridge between public, private, and municipal entities for the betterment of all.
If you want to be a part of this exceptional group of engaged alumni, please join us in propelling our students to achieve their personal and professional goals. Your mentoring, volunteer leadership, or referral for an internship or job opportunity may prove to be the difference in their success—you may already know that yourself.
Message from the CEO
We AreGovState!
As CEO of The Governors State University Foundation, I have the privilege of seeing the myriad ways GovState makes a difference. We are actively building relationships that transform the lives and legacies of our students and our community.
Underscoring the University’s mission to provide students with an accessible and exceptional education, our goals are to:
- Ensure student access to scholarships and financial support.
- Provide faculty with resources for meaningful research.
- Facilitate community opportunities for impactful collaborations.
- Enhance alumni relationships.
To accomplish these goals, we are working with the campus community, alumni and friends, public and private organizations, and leaders to ensure that GovState facilitates and contributes to the success of this region. A public university is a public asset—a convener of ambition and growth that is open to everyone.
Your investment provides students and faculty with the resources they need to achieve their academic ambitions and career goals. Invest in your interest by partnering with us.
Honoring GovState,
Will Davis
MEET THE FOUNDATION BOARD
The Governors State University Foundation Board was created in 1969 to oversee the financial operations of the foundation as it maintains its legal and ethical standing. It provides leadership and strategic direction, setting goals which align with the University’s strategic plan. Through this oversight, it serves as a guardian of the public trust and remains accountable to its donors, GovState alumni and the general public.
Michelle Redd
- CHAIR
- CEO, Building Blocks Learning Academy
Gia Orr
- VICE PRESIDENT
- Senior Manager, State Government Affairs, Commonwealth Edison
Carney Barr
- TREASURER
- Rich Township (Retired)
Octavia Matthews
- SECRETARY
- Regional VP, Aramark Facilities Management
Will Davis
- CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
- Vice President of External Affairs, Governors State University
David Barr
- BOARD MEMBER
- Attorney-at-Law
Dr. Marlon Cummings
- BOARD MEMBER
- GovState Division Chair
Kathleen Field Orr
- BOARD MEMBER
- Attorney, Ottosen, DiNolfo, Hasenbalg & Castaldo, Ltd
Paul Labonne
- BOARD MEMBER
- Vice President, PNC Bank
Martina Matthews
- BOARD MEMBER
- AI Strategy Consultant
Lorine S. Samuels
- BOARD MEMBER
- President, Strategic Business Services, Inc.
Villalyn Baluga
- EX- OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER
- Interim Chief Financial Officer, Governors State University
Veronica Blair
- EX-OFFICIO, FOUNDATION BOARD LIAISON
- Business Administrative Associate, Governors State University
Ron Bean
- EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER
- GovState Adjunct Professor (Deceased)
Beverly Goldberg
- EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER
- Community Representative
Dr. Rashidah Muhammad
- EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER
- Professor, Governors State University
Barbara Peterson
- EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER
- Will County Planning Commission (Deceased)
William Sanders
- EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER
- Honeywell (Retired)