Ridgewater College Foundation names new executive director

The Ridgewater College Foundation Board of Directors has chosen Kelly Magnuson to fill the foundation’s vacant executive director position. Magnuson assumed her new duties on Nov. 11.

The executive director is responsible for the supervision, direction and implementation of the foundation’s scholarship program, new initiatives and fund raising programs.

Magnuson has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from St. Cloud State University. She was appointed interim director of the foundation in August, and has served as foundation specialist since 2006. She has been instrumental in implementing improved processes in the foundation’s scholarship program, financial accounting and database systems since 2006.

Her previous work background includes two years as office administrator and seven years as senior legal assistant for law firms specializing in civil litigation.

Magnuson, who lives in Willmar with her husband and three children, serves as a volunteer for the Willmar Booster Basketball Association and Vinje Lutheran Church, and is a member of Cardinal Pride, Eagle Creek Golf Club and the YMCA. She has been a planner and organizer of the Jodi’s Network of Hope annual golf fund raiser since 2005.

The Ridgewater College Foundation seeks to expand educational opportunities and enhance academic excellence for Ridgewater College and its students. It awards approximately $200,000 in scholarships and $30,000 in program support annually.