Foundation News

Cindy R. Morris of Peoria has been appointed President of the Peoria Public Schools Foundation by the Foundation’s Board of Directors, effective May 3, 2010. In her role, Morris will provide the staff leadership of the non-profit corporation with a mission to achieve excellence for the Peoria Public Schools through financial contributions that support student achievement.

Morris replaces Linda Sahn who retired this spring. Morris had previously served as the Adopt-A-School Manager for Peoria School District 150, coordinating partnerships between schools, businesses and organizations.

Peoria Public Schools Foundation Board Chairman Steve Weaver said, “Cindy Morris comes to this role with familiarity of every one of the 33 schools in the District and a respect and understanding for the community’s resources. Her excitement about the critical need for excellence in our schools will give the donors confidence that Peoria Public Schools Foundation will continue to make a big difference for the students.”

“It gives me great joy to be able to continue my long-time dream of working for the school system to serve our students,” Morris said. “With this new role, it is exciting to be able to work with the generous and visionary donors, community leaders, parents, and alumni with a goal to raise the money that will give talented students the competitive opportunity they deserve to achieve excellence.”

Incorporated in 1998, the Peoria Public Schools Foundation has raised private contributions that have helped give opportunities to young people in Peoria and secured a better future for our city and our world. The Foundation Board oversees endowment funds of approximately $1 million and annual contributions of more than $300,000.