University of Illinois Foundation’s interim president Edward Ewald.

The University of Illinois Foundation chose Edward Ewald  to serve as the interim president.  Edward, senior vice president for development, will be the interim president as of Oct. 18.

Ed steps in as Thomas Farrell moves on to become senior vice president and chief advancement officer at the University of Rochester.  As interim president, Ed will oversee the foundation’s day-to-day operations and lead the university’s overall fundraising.

“Ed Ewald’s appointment achieves a level of stability and continuity, sought by the executive committee of the foundation’s board,” UIF Board Chair Roger Plummer said. “He provides vital institutional memory important to maintaining momentum on the Roadmap plan and other key initiatives that are part of the strategy to significantly enhance our level of private support.”

The 56-year-old Ewald has been at the foundation for 22 years, serving in a variety of positions, including campaign director for the $2.43 billion Brilliant Futures campaign. He also has been interim vice chancellor for institutional advancement for the Urbana campus and interim vice chancellor for development for the Chicago campus. Most recently, he has been involved in the foundation’s “Roadmap” strategic plan.

Prior to the UI Foundation, Ewald was an investment advisor and financial planner.  He graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1979 and serves on the board of directors of Kirby Medical Center and the Kirby Foundation in Monticello.