Jonathan McKenzie Named New Executive Officer of EIU Foundation
Mar-21-2014
Jonathan McKenzie has been named the new executive officer of the Eastern Illinois University Foundation.
“We welcome Jonathan to his new leadership role,” said Christine Robertson, president of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. “In addition to his prior experience working with various boards, Jonathan brings 10 continuous years of professional experience at EIU, serving in the offices of Alumni Services, the Alumni Fund, University Advancement and Academic Affairs.
“Through these experiences, he has developed an appreciation and understanding of the unique history, cultural traditions, and donor, alumni and community relationships that are the building blocks of the strong partnership between the university and the Foundation.”
McKenzie currently serves as assistant to the dean of Eastern’s Lumpkin College of Business and Applied Sciences. Previously, as an assistant director with Alumni Services, he coordinated the Annual Fund (from 2004-2010) while holding a part-time position as a philanthropy officer during two of those years for the School of Continuing Education.
Prior to beginning his career at EIU, he was responsible for developing cultural and artistic programming for the Lake Land College Foundation as a special events coordinator. He has a history of working with community development agencies and non-profit organizations such as the Cumberland County Development Corp., where he was director in 2004.
McKenzie, who lives in Mattoon, said he was pleased to join and be a part of “such an exceptional organization” as the EIU Foundation.
“The EIU Foundation has been actively supporting the mission of Eastern Illinois University for more than 60 years. Our donors, members, directors, volunteers and staff are to be commended for their dedication.”
Robert Martin, EIU’s vice president for university advancement, said he was happy to see McKenzie re-join the university advancement team.
“I am pleased that Jonathan chose to accept the position of executive officer for the EIU Foundation,” he added. “I’m sure his experience and enthusiasm will serve him well.”
Although McKenzie will not officially begin his job as executive officer until April 1, he’s already thinking the part.
“Eastern Illinois University has played an important role in my life,” McKenzie said. “And I am not alone. There are many others whose lives have been enriched by their association with EIU.
“I encourage all of them to be a part of Eastern’s future,” he said. “Their support will make a significant difference.”
McKenzie also issued an open invitation. “I welcome anyone to stop by the EIU Foundation for a visit at any time.” The Foundation’s offices are located in the Neal Welcome Center, 860 West Lincoln Ave., Charleston.
