UConn Foundation Announces John Fodor to Serve as Interim President and CEO

UConn alumnus, donor, and business leader committed to maintaining Foundation’s momentum during presidential search process

The UConn Foundation has named John Fodor as interim president and CEO, effective August 21. Fodor, ’85 (CLAS), of Southborough, Mass., is a UConn alumnus, and has been engaged with the University and Foundation for many years.

He recently retired as executive vice president of global distribution and board member of The Capital Group/American Funds, where he served for 22 years. Fodor has agreed to join the Foundation until the search for a permanent president and CEO has been completed. Josh Newton, the current president and CEO, is leaving the Foundation August 15.

“He understands that the Foundation has enjoyed tremendous success over the last few years—amassing the strongest four-year fundraising total in its history—and that the momentum must continue,” said Foundation Board Chairman Dan Toscano. “I’m confident he has the tools and temperament to help guide the Foundation during this time of transition. And yes—he bleeds blue!”

Fodor is already a devoted member of UConn Nation. He serves on the School of Business Dean’s Advisory Cabinet, was named 2012-2013 Outstanding Alumnus for his support of the Marketing Department and is a frequent guest lecturer at UConn. Last year, he was inducted into the School of Business’s Hall of Fame based on his success as a global business leader.
“I am thrilled to help lead the UConn Foundation as we head into a new and exciting time for UConn,” said Fodor. “The University is truly a hub for innovation and the engine to drive our economy forward. A strong Foundation and growing endowment is critical to this mission.”

Fodor said that his passion for UConn and business acumen will help the Foundation not only manage this period of change but continue its evolution.

“As an alumnus who believes in giving back, I’ve been engaged with the University for many years—as a donor, guest lecturer, and volunteer. Serving as interim president and CEO of the Foundation is a terrific opportunity to share my business experience and to position the Foundation for even greater success in the years ahead.”

Over the last four fiscal years, donors to the University have made commitments and gifts totaling more than $300 million, by far the best four-year period in the Foundation’s 54-year history. At the close of FY 2018, the University’s total endowment had grown from $42 million in 1995 to approximately $440 million.

“Thanks to tens of thousands of generous donors, the Foundation has made tremendous progress in increasing philanthropic support for UConn,” said Fodor. “There’s a critical need for even greater levels of giving in the coming years if the University is going to continue its ascent in national rankings and prominence.”

Throughout his career, Fodor has been involved with numerous nonprofit organizations and educational institutions. He currently sits on the boards of trustees of the Foundation for Financial Planning as well as the Southborough Community Foundation, and is president of his family’s foundation, the John and Sally Fodor Family Foundation. Fodor, his wife, Sally, and their two daughters reside in Southborough, Mass.

The UConn Foundation will begin a national search for a permanent president and CEO in next few weeks.