Emporia State University Foundation Announces CEO Transition and Launch of National Search

Emporia, KS (10/01/2024) — The Emporia State University Foundation has announced that it has launched a national executive search to find its next CEO of the ESU Foundation. As part of the ongoing commitment to supporting the mission of the university, the Foundation is now preparing for its next chapter under new leadership.

To ensure a smooth transition, the Foundation has formed a dedicated search committee to oversee the process of selecting the next Chief Executive Officer. As part of the CEO succession process, Chartwell Partners, a nationally recognized executive search firm, will conduct a comprehensive search. Chartwell Partners brings a wealth of experience in recruiting top-tier leaders and will work closely with the Foundation to ensure a rigorous and thorough process.

The Position Description for this transformative opportunity can be found here.

"Our commitment is to identify an exceptional leader who will foster a culture of philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and competitive spirit, engaging alumni, friends, and donors to support Emporia State University's mission," said Denise Kruse, Chair of the Search Committee.

Now is an exciting time to work with ESU's Foundation with the addition of over $9 million in new scholarships available while for the first time in its history, ESU passed along a decrease in student fees for 2024. Combine this with exciting new curriculum and partnerships, and this role becomes even more vital in support of the University.

The ESUF President and CEO will lead a team of 25, setting the vision and pace, and actively securing annual, major, and planned gifts from individuals and organizations. This leader will be instrumental in building a highly effective, innovative Foundation to support the university. The President and CEO will live in Emporia, KS, or within a commutable distance as this position is an important community relations role. Individuals interested to apply may send their resume to ESUF-CEO@chartwellpartners.com to be considered.

Shane Shivley, the Foundation's recent president and CEO, remains with ESU as Senior Director of Development. Reporting to President Ken Hush, Shively works on large-scale, impactful projects, relationship and economic development for ESU. Gary Allerheiligen, ESU alumnus and former Trustee, is serving as interim president & CEO. The Foundation's Board of Trustees expressed gratitude to Shane for his many contributions to the success of the Foundation, and to Gary as interim leader of the Foundation.