ST. LOUIS, MO – Kwame Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Kwame Building Group, has selected Lydia Huston as its new Executive Director. In this role, Huston will oversee daily operations, apply multidimensional fundraising and community relations initiatives and implement year-round philanthropic activities through the organization’s existing events and programs.
Since 2003, the organization has contributed nearly $3 million in endowed scholarships, primarily for first-generation college students. With Huston’s hiring, the organization will shift to endowing scholarships primarily to HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities).
“As the Executive Director of Kwame Foundation, Lydia will merge her years of proven fundraising success with strategic community engagement and sound administrative practices. I firmly believe our new direction of endowing scholarships primarily to HBCUs is critical to help level the playing field for minority students committed to obtaining a college education,” said Kwame Foundation Founder Tony Thompson.
Huston holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Studies from Saint Louis University and is a Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE). She is a board member with St. Louis University’s Black Alumni as well as a recent graduate of FOCUS St. Louis Women in Leadership program. Lydia previously served in key leadership roles at Loyola Academy of St. Louis, The Little Bit Foundation, Fontbonne University and YWCA Metro St. Louis.
ABOUT KWAME FOUNDATION
Founded by Kim and Anthony (Tony) Thompson, CEO of Kwame Building Group, The Kwame Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to address a prevailing need among African American students who have the aptitude and motivation for college but lack the financial and other resources necessary to succeed and graduate. Programs include scholarships, educational mentorships, internship opportunities and training to prepare for an ever-evolving workforce. For more than 30 years, Kwame Foundation has been a champion for education and a philanthropic pillar in the St. Louis area and throughout the United States. For more information, please visit http://kwamefoundation.com or contact Lydia Huston at [email protected].
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