CEO Message

Will Davis001

When I began my tenure at Governors State University (GovState), I looked forward to elevating the visibility and brand of Governors State University. I saw the jewel and wanted to share the vision with others north of I-80. In the decade plus that I have served this institution, I have discovered far more than I originally imagined. The Governors State University Foundation is building relationships that transform the lives and legacies of our students and our community. It is with a deep sense of satisfaction and pride that I continue to witness the results of our collective efforts.

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.

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.

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.

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.

As Vice President of External Affairs and CEO of the Foundation, I plan to build on the successes of recent years by 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. 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. A public university is a public asset—a convener of ambition and growth that is open to everyone.

Whether your passion is for scholarships, academic programs, the Arts, athletics, alumni, or another area, your annual investment in GovState 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

Will Davis

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.

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.

Board & Advisors

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.


OFFICERS


Carney Barr

CHAIR

Carney Barr
Rich Township (Retired)


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VICE PRESIDENT

Paul Labonne
PNC Bank


Michelle Redd-Newell

TREASURER (INTERIM)

Michelle Redd-Newell
Building Blocks Learning Academy


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CHAIRMAN, RECRUITMENT & MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

Hank Johnson
Proven Business Systems


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SECRETARY

David Barr
Attorney-at-Law


BOARD MEMBERS


Kevin Brookins

Kevin Brookins
ComEd (Retired)
GovState Board of Trustee Liaison


Dr. Cheryl Green

Dr. Cheryl Green
GovState President


Will Davis

William A. Davis
Vice President of Development
CEO GovState Foundation


Dr. Li-Wei Peng

Dr. Li-Wei Peng
GovState Faculty Senate President


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Helen Hill
Progress Rail


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Octavia Matthews
Aramark Uniform Services


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Jermaine Paul
GovState Alumni Association Representative


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Lorine S. Samuels
Strategic Business Services, Inc.


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Angie Zuniga
Chief Administrative Officer, Illiana Financial Credit Union


EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS


Villalyn Baluga

Villalyn Baluga
GovState Associate Vice President, Finance


EMERITUS MEMBERS


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Ron Bean
GovState Adjunct Professor


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Beverly Goldberg
Community Representative


Rashidah Muhammad

Dr. Rashidah Muhammad
GovState Professor


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Barbara Peterson
Will County Planning Commission (Deceased)


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William Sanders
Honeywell (Retired)