Interim President and CEO Announced

The United Methodist Higher Education Foundation Board of Trustees has named the Rev. Cara Stultz Costello as Interim President and CEO, effective immediately. She is expected to serve through the end of 2025 as the board completes its search for a permanent president.

The decision follows the unexpected passing of Bob Fletcher on September 7, 2025. Fletcher had recently returned for an interim period to assist the foundation through a leadership transition after retiring as UMHEF’s longtime President and CEO in July 2024.

Rev. Stultz Costello has served on the UMHEF Board of Trustees since 2021 and is currently the Vice Chair. With permission and blessing from Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, she will serve this interim presidency as an extension of her continued service as a District Superintendent of the Central Valley District of the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church.

The foundation remains committed to supporting the higher education of students and the UM-related schools they attend through scholarships. Learn more about us.