Photo: Creative Commons. 

The Schowalter Foundation, located in Newton, Kansas, announces the appointment of Arlan Yoder as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation. Yoder and wise live in Hesston, Kansas. Yoder brings experience in health and financial services, and also credits growing up farming as background for his skills in management and oversight. “These abilities will serve the Foundation well,” said retiring President Jerre Bontrager.

Bontrager, also of Hesston, has served as President and CEO of Schowalter Foundation since 2006.

Schowalter Foundation was established by the implementation of JAke A. Schowalter’s will in 1954. He envisioned an ethically-invested endowment which would grow through the years and enable gifts to fledgling efforts in peacemaking and service to humankind. The board is comprised of members of the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, and Mennonite Church USA.

Grants are focused on projects proposed by Mennonite-related groups which advance the Kingdom of God. Many charitable efforts in the Harvey County area have also received grants from the Foundation.

Arlan Yoder has worked with Via Christi Health System and Hesston College in senior financial management roles. He most recently worked as Senior Investment Manager for Everence, headquartered in Goshen, Indiana. Yoder said he looks forward to this opportunity to put his skills to work in managing foundation assets and in providing resources for projects which will benefit thousands of people worldwide.