Central State University Development Foundation Announces New Board Leadership

The Central State University Development Foundation has elected Peter Gibbs ’86 as President and Stephen Alexander as Vice President of its Board of Directors. The elections took place during the Foundation's October 8, 2026, meeting. 

The announcement also introduces the Foundation's updated public-facing name. Legally established as the Central State University Innovation and Development Foundation, the organization now operates as the Central State University Development Foundation. The simplified name more clearly reflects its role in receiving and stewarding charitable contributions that support scholarships, academic programs, student success, and institutional priorities. 

"This is an exciting opportunity to strengthen the Foundation's identity and reinforce its important role in supporting Central State University," said Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, President of Central State University. "We are grateful to Peter and Steve for their willingness to serve and for the experience, relationships, and commitment they bring to these leadership positions." 

As Board President, Gibbs will help ensure the Foundation's Board of Directors fulfills its governance and fiduciary oversight responsibilities, including financial stewardship, accountability, and trustee engagement. Alexander, as Vice President, will support Board governance and efforts to strengthen relationships with alumni, corporate partners, and other supporters. 

Gibbs, a 1986 Central State graduate and professional with Foundation Surety, has maintained a personal commitment to his alma mater through philanthropy. He and his wife, Nikeya, established the Peter and Nikeya Gibbs Family Scholarship to help Central State students pursue their educational goals, reflecting their shared commitment to student success and expanding opportunities for future generations of Marauders. 

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Alexander is Founder and Principal of College Avenue Partners, a higher education consulting firm specializing in institutional advancement, fundraising strategy, and alternative revenue development. His extensive experience includes advancement leadership roles at the University of Southern California, Arizona State University, Bowling Green State University, and Western University in Canada. At USC, he served as Executive Director of Development and Graduate Relations during the University's successful $6 billion fundraising campaign. 

" The Foundation Board plays an important role in providing governance and financial oversight while supporting the University's philanthropic efforts," said Rebecca Kocher, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the Foundation. "We look forward to working with Peter and Steve to strengthen financial stewardship, engage our trustees, and build philanthropic partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for Central State students." 

Through collaboration among Foundation trustees, University leadership, Institutional Advancement, alumni, and philanthropic partners, the Foundation works to expand opportunities for current and future generations of Marauders.