The governing board of the newly-created Friends of OETA, Inc. held its first meeting today to elect officers and establish the operational framework to begin working as an independent cooperating foundation with the exclusive function of raising, managing and dispersing donor funds in support of OETA.
Dr. Robert Spinks, the current director of the Master of Arts program at Oklahoma City University and former CEO of United Way of Central Oklahoma, was elected President of the new board. Edmond business owner and former television news anchor Jennifer Eve was elected Vice President. Altus banker and arts patron Ken Fergeson was named Treasurer and nonprofit educator and retired Oklahoma Department of Human Services Chief of Staff Sharon Neuwald was selected to serve as Secretary of the organization.
“OETA is a state treasure and our mission is to provide donors with the means to confidently invest in OETA’s mission,” said Dr. Spinks. “As stewards of this new charity we are first committed to properly organizing and preparing to raise funds for OETA’s benefit in a transparent and ethical fashion. We are eager to revitalize OETA’s relationship with long-time donors and celebrate new OETA supporters.”
Friends Of OETA, Inc. will soon announce further information on how to make a charitable gift in support of OETA.