College Success Foundation Names Michael Cheever as President and Chief Executive Officer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bellevue, Wash. — August 28, 2025 — The College Success Foundation (CSF) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael (Mike) Cheever as President and Chief Executive Officer of the College Success Foundation.

As CSF looks ahead, the Board is confident in Mike’s leadership at the helm. A highly respected executive with more than a decade of dedicated service at CSF, Mike previously served as Interim CEO and Executive Vice President of External Relations and brings deep knowledge of the organization’s mission, culture, and operations, as well as the broader educational environment. His proven leadership ensures both stability and a seamless transition as CSF continues to serve as a trusted partner to schools, communities and institutions across Washington state.

“Mike has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to CSF’s mission and to the students and families we serve,” said George Bridges, CSF Board of Directors Chair. “His leadership through this pivotal time of transition has been collaborative and mission-driven. The Board is confident that Mike will guide CSF forward with strength and a deep commitment to students.”

Earlier this year, difficult budgetary decisions by the state legislature resulted in significant funding reductions for many nonprofits, including CSF. Over the summer, Mike led a broad restructuring effort to position CSF for long-term sustainability while maintaining its focus on ensuring students from low-income and first-generation backgrounds have the support needed to access and succeed in college.

“This is a key moment in time for students and families across Washington,” said Mike Cheever, CSF President & CEO. “As the first in my family to graduate from college, I know firsthand the transformative power of education. I am honored to lead CSF into its next chapter, ensuring that every student has the advising, financial resources and support they need to succeed in college.”

Mike’s vision for CSF is rooted in expanding opportunity and breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty through education. He began his career in the U.S. Navy, serving overseas in forward-deployed positions before moving into nonprofit leadership with a focus on external affairs. Before joining CSF in 2014, he held leadership roles in healthcare with Bloodworks Northwest and UW Medicine.

Mike received his bachelor’s degree in leadership and organizational studies from Antioch University Seattle. Earlier this year, he received Antioch University’s Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. Throughout his career, he has remained dedicated to giving back, lifting up students and serving his community.

For 25 years, College Success Foundation has championed opportunity and achievement, breaking down barriers to education for students across Washington state. This school year, CSF will serve 10,000 high school and college students as they access and succeed in college.