Ridgefielder Named CEO Of Ukrainian Catholic University Foundation

**News Release Submitted by UCU Foundation **

March 7, 2024

The UCU Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Annetta Hewko a resident of Ridgefield, Connecticut, has joined as its new Chief Executive Officer. Annetta has had a distinguished career as a corporate and non-profit executive and consultant, previously serving as President and CEO of the Tourette Association of America, Vice President of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, and as an executive at Pepsico in New York and in various countries overseas, including Ukraine. In her role at UCU Foundation, Annetta will lead the foundation in its mission to fund the growth and operation of the Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv, Ukraine.

“Annetta’s experience as a leader in multinational organizations — in both the private and non-profit sectors — makes her an ideal fit to lead the UCU Foundation,” said Taras Szmagala, Jr., UCU Foundation board chair. “Both the foundation and UCU will benefit from her leadership, and we’re excited to move forward on our journey.”

Hewko’s selection follows an extensive search, focused on finding a leader with a passion for the mission and a commitment to creating growth and lasting change for the future.

“I am honored to join UCU Foundation,” states Hewko. “The opportunity to help this leading university in Ukraine is both humbling and inspiring. Despite incredibly challenging circumstances, UCU continues to educate students to the highest standards, forge relationships with leading universities, like Notre Dame, Georgetown and Stanford, and prepare UCU graduates to be the future leaders of Ukraine’s civil society. Our mission to support UCU is now more important than ever.”

In her leadership role with the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Annetta expanded the organization’s global initiatives into 25 countries. As President & CEO of the Tourette Association of America, she led the organization through a significant strategic reset, repositioning it for growth and amplified impact. During her 17-year tenure at PepsiCo, Annetta worked across the globe in international operations, sales and marketing leadership roles. In one of her earliest roles at PepsiCo, she served as the first Country Manager in Ukraine immediately following the break-up of the Soviet Union.

Through her private consulting and advisory engagements, she has helped organizations navigate strategic shifts and build capabilities to realize growth opportunities. She also serves on the boards of both business and civic organizations.

Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, she has mobilized her local community to help provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine. As a representative to the UN of the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations, she has helped advocate for the women and children of Ukraine.

A two-time graduate of Northwestern University, Annetta received her Master of Business Administration from The Kellogg School and earned her bachelor’s degree at the McCormick School of Engineering.

Taras Dobko, Ph.D. and Rector of Ukrainian Catholic University, says, “UCU Foundation is integral to UCU and our ability to continue to deliver a premier education to our students. Annetta’s background in global business initiatives and non-profit management aligns with UCU’s mission of educating future leaders. She brings valuable skills and perspective that will support and invigorate our many efforts. We look forward to working closely with her and the foundation.”