Central State University Reinvigorating the Innovation & Development Foundation and Board

Central State University has taken another important step in strengthening its philanthropic and stewardship infrastructure by reinvigorating the Innovation & Development Foundation (IDF) and its Board of Trustees. The IDF is the official gift-receiving and processing entity for Central State University. 

The Foundation is responsible for receiving, processing, and investing private contributions in support of Central State’s educational mission. The Foundation’s Board of Trustees provides fiduciary oversight ensuring that donor wishes are honored and those funds are used for their intended purpose. In addition, IDF also ensures that long-term assets are invested and managed prudently.  The IDF and its Board fulfills these tasks by:

• Reconciling the transfer of donated funds from the IDF to the University to ensure accurate alignment of donations received, expenditures made, and financial reporting requirements.
• Regularly distributing all available funds to support the operations of the University in accordance with donor intent.
• Collating and providing data to digitally publish an overall Annual Impact Report and individual fund reports.

The day-to-day advancement operations - including fundraising, donor stewardship, alumni engagement, and marketing and communications – is carried out by Central State University’s Office of Institutional Advancement under the leadership of Vice President and Foundation Executive Director Rebecca Kocher.

Operating as an independent 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with the University allows both entities to be transparent, with the IDF acting as the financial conduit for alumni, friends, foundations, and corporations to support CSU’s mission, vision, and strategic plan. 
 

The IDF Foundation supports CSU by being the bridge between donors and the University by making charitable, tax-deductible contributions. 

“Reconstituting the Innovation and Development Foundation Board is an essential step in ensuring that Central State University is positioned for sustainable growth and philanthropic success,” said Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, President of Central State University. “Our board members bring experience, passion, and a deep commitment to advancing CSU’s mission.”

The current IDF Board of Trustees includes:

• Peter Gibbs, ’86, Foundation Board Member
• Jacqueline Gamblin, Chair, CSU Board of Trustees
• Rebecca Kocher, Executive Director of the Foundation and Vice President for Institutional Advancement
• Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, President, Central State University
• Dr. Ugo Nwokoro, Foundation Board Member
• Dr. Adrian Petway, Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer
• Stacy Thompson Spear-Hardy, Foundation Board Member

The IDF held its first fiscal year 2026 board meeting on October 30, 2025, focusing on establishing stronger governance practices, adopting interim fundraising guidelines, and reaffirming the Foundation’s role in supporting CSU through ethical and coordinated fundraising.

“Our focus is on transparency, stewardship, and creating an infrastructure that honors donor intent while strengthening confidence in the University,” said Rebecca Kocher, Executive Director of the IDF. “This board represents a shared commitment to advancing CSU’s long-term philanthropic goals.”

As the Foundation rebuilds its infrastructure, its priorities include strengthening procedures, ensuring alignment with CSU’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, and continuing to grow University giving and endowment support.

To support and make a gift to Central State University through the Innovation & Development Foundation, please visit www.centralstate.edu/give or contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 937-376-6588 or IA@centralstate.edu.