MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee Public Schools Foundation has named Willie Jude II as its Executive Director.

According to a MPS Foundation press release on Wednesday, Nov. 2, Jude's appointment was influenced by his background in higher education and community engagement, evidenced by a 17-year career that includes a Vice Chancellor role at the University of Wisconsin - Parkside and a certificate in Fundraising Management from The Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis.

Jude is also an MPS alum, with the foundation noting that his professional past, marked by a focus on educational access and philanthropy, aligns with their strategic direction. In 2022, Jude was acknowledged by Madison365 as one of Wisconsin's most influential black leaders.

The MPS Foundation operates independently with initiatives that extend beyond the scope of the MPS annual budget. Its mission is to provide resources that facilitate educational programs, scholarships and community-oriented projects.

More information can be found by visiting the MPS Foundation online.