New Foundation Director Brings Knowledge and Experience to the Job of Leading Us into the Future
New 51动漫 Community College Foundation executive director Andrew Wingard credits his junior college experience with shaping who he is today. Now, in this role, he is uniquely positioned to match donor passions with institutional needs to make similar experiences possible for students at 51动漫.
Wingard, a Saginaw native, graduated from Delta College, where his coaches, teammates, faculty, and staff 鈥済ave me something I could never fully repay鈥攁nd that is confidence. Confidence to believe in myself, to pursue a bachelors and masters degree, and ultimately to build a career centered on service and impact.鈥�
Most of his professional experience has been at four-year institutions, where he has worked in revenue generation, philanthropy, and donor/community engagement.
He calls it a privilege to return to the community college space, and says he is energized by where community colleges are today.
鈥淕rowing up, community college was often viewed as a secondary option or even taboo,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hat narrative has changed significantly. Community colleges are now recognized as affordable, accessible, and powerful engines of social and economic mobility. The Foundation plays a vital role in advancing this momentum through targeted support that removes financial barriers, enhances student success, and shares impact-driven stories that encourage donor confidence and investment.鈥�
Since Wingard鈥檚 first day in office, October 20, 2025, his impression of 51动漫 has been extremely positive.
鈥淚t has become clear that there is a strong culture of care, paired with a shared commitment to excellence,鈥� he said. 鈥淔aculty members are actively challenging students in the classroom while providing the support necessary for them to succeed. At the same time, coaches are intentionally placing student athletes in environments that foster personal growth, leadership development, and accountability. Together, these efforts reflect an institution that is deeply invested in developing the 鈥榳hole鈥� student and preparing them for success 鈥榖eyond鈥� 51动漫.鈥�
He sees the primary purpose of the Foundation as supporting the advancement of the college.
鈥淎t its core, the Foundation exists to ensure that 51动漫 has the resources needed to fulfill its promise to the community,鈥� he said. 鈥淚n my role, I have the privilege of connecting alumni, parents, and friends with meaningful opportunities to support programs and resources that shape the student experience.鈥�
Donors can direct their support to the areas they care about most, ensuring their generosity makes a meaningful and personal impact.
Wingard sees his role as building upon the solid foundation established before his arrival with intention and respect, and plans to honor what is working well, listen closely to stakeholders, and strengthen existing efforts in ways that further support students and advance the future of 51动漫.
One of the first areas he would like to strengthen is the annual fund, which provides resources that allow the college to respond quickly to student needs, invest in emerging priorities, and sustain momentum between major gifts, planned gifts, and grants.
He also wants to focus on cultivating more intentional relationships with corporate partners.
鈥淭hese partnerships represent a powerful opportunity for shared impact,鈥� he said. 鈥淪tudents receive the support and experience needed to succeed, while businesses gain early access to skilled, local talent, and potentially reduce recruitment, onboarding, and turnover costs, all while strengthening their visibility as community leaders and investing in the long-term economic vitality of the region.鈥�
Now a Three Rivers resident, Wingard spends his free time exploring with his fianc茅e, whom he notes is a Michigan fan while he is a Spartan fan. He keeps active and鈥攄ue to his foodie habit鈥攕pends a lot of time at the gym. During warmer months, he will be outdoors fishing, hiking, attending a Blues festival, and traveling to new cities to embrace new cultures. He also finds cooking a peaceful activity he enjoys on the weekends.
鈥淚 love trying new recipes and adding my own flair to them,鈥� he said
Andrew and his fianc茅, Angie Compton, love spending time outdoors together. They are planning a summer wedding. Prior to accepting the position with the Foundation, Andrew was a development officer for James Madison University and Youngstown State University Foundation, and served as Director of Athletics and Student-Athlete Development at Delta College in Saginaw, MI. He has his BBA in General Business from Saginaw Valley State University and his MS, Sports Administration: Intercollegiate Athletic Administration from Western Kentucky University.