Educational Foundation

The Oakton College Educational Foundation proudly supports the mission and vision of the College by raising funds for student scholarships, academic programs, teaching excellence, and capital improvements that enhance the quality of education at Oakton.

The Educational Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the College and provides funding beyond what is available through government, tax resources and tuition revenue. Our work supports student success in a variety of ways. We help fund scholarships, provide funding for campus improvements and equipment acquisition, and support key student success initiatives. We also act nimbly to respond to unexpected needs and challenges. In 2020, for example, we authorized a $62,500 emergency grant to help pay for the purchase of Chromebook laptops. These allowed students without access to a computer to continue their studies online during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Educational Foundation actively seeks contributions from individuals, corporations, family foundations and other charitable organizations. It acts as a steward of donations to the College by assuring that all gifts are designated and spent in the manner specified by the donor.

As a charitable organization serving the community, we are committed to operating in an open and accountable manner. To see some of our recent work and accomplishments, please view our annual report online.

The Oakton College Educational Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity governed by a community-based, volunteer Board of Directors.

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The Foundation Board

The Board of Directors develops strategies and policies to guide the activities of the Educational Foundation in support of Oakton College. Each member brings a unique combination of experiences, skills and perspectives, as well as a sincere desire to help Oakton students succeed.

Officers

Murray Sprung, President
Carl Costanza, Immediate Past President
Julie Fenton, Vice President/President-Elect
Nancy Sullivan, Treasurer
Jeff Coney, Secretary
Joianne Smith, Ph.D., College President (Ex Officio)
Katherine Sawyer, CFRE, Executive Director (Ex Officio)

Board of Directors

Alex Boryszewski
Rivers Casino

Hansy Charlier
Acuity Brands Lighting

Kate Gallagher
Wintrust Bank

Hank Galatz, J.D.
W.W. Grainger

Scott Hurwitz
Deloitte (retired)

Regina Holloway, J.D.
Axon

Katie Hunt
Oakton College (retired)

Catherine Leonard
Baird Warner

Kathy Lichtenstein
Rex’s Place

John Madison
John Madison, Inc.

Joan C. Richards, Ed.D.
Wheels Inc. (retired)

Natasha Bannatyle Richards
John Crane, Inc.

Jeffrey Rodriguez
United Parcel Service

Steve Salaman
Brookdale Senior Living

Howard S. Singer

Cindy Veremis
LGS Sky Chef (retired)

Ella Woodford-Parker
Amita Health Holy Family Medical Center

Jodi Wrede
Allstate

Ex Officio Liaisons

Bill Stafford, trustee
Ruben Howard II, industry partner
Carol Bustamante, faculty
Tim Panfil, alumni ('88, '89)