Foundation Selects Coleman as Next CEO

Alumnus Warren Coleman selected as the James Madison University Foundation CEO and President 

The James Madison University Foundation Board met on December 8, 2017 and elected Warren K. Coleman as its next CEO and president.  The JMU Foundation is the principal support organization for the University focused on providing an ever-growing and sustainable source of private support for the University community. 

 Coleman’s appointment will be effective July 1, 2018 upon the retirement of long-time Foundation CEO, Thomas Schaeffer.  Mr. Schaeffer is a thirty-one year employee of the Foundation beginning as a staff accountant in 1987.  He served as the Foundation’s treasurer, vice president and chief financial officer and executive vice president before being named the chief executive officer and president in 2012.

 “The Foundation is fortunate to have found in Mr. Coleman an individual with the perfect combination of business acumen and passion for JMU,” Schaeffer said.  “Warren has a clear understanding of the importance of the Foundation’s role in the future of the University and is the perfect individual to help them achieve their ambitious goals in the coming years.”

 Mr. Coleman is a two-time graduate of JMU with a bachelor’s degree in Accounting in 1979 and an MBA in 1981.  He was a member of the JMU football team and has remained active with the University in many capacities.  He has served as a member and president of the Duke Club Board of Directors and as a trustee and chair of the JMU Foundation Board.  Mr. Coleman is also currently a member of the JMU Board of Visitors where he serves as the vice-rector.  Mr. Coleman plans to resign from the Board of Visitors prior to assuming his new role as the president and CEO of the Foundation.

 “I am humbled and excited to be coming home to JMU,” Coleman said.  “Private philanthropy is such an important part of the future of James Madison University.  I look forward to using much of the knowledge that I gained as a student and as an active alumnus to help steward the Foundation’s resources in a manner that makes a difference in the lives of future Dukes and JMU’s amazing faculty and staff.”

 Coleman has extensive business experience, most recently as co-founder and chief financial officer of the ICA and Farmville, LLCs and chief financial officer of Harper Associates, LLC. 

 Coleman and his wife, Judi, will reside in Harrisonburg.

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