MPSF is excited to have the experienced local leader serve as our next President, beginning June 1, 2026.
As the Foundation approaches its 25th anniversary, Mo will help lead MPSF into its next chapter of supporting students, educators, and public schools across Madison through philanthropy, advocacy, and community partnership.
“Mo is the right leader at the right time for our organization,” said Jill Jokela, Chair of the MPSF Board of Directors. “The Board has tremendous confidence in Mo’s ability to lead the next chapter of the Foundation’s work. He understands our culture deeply, has a track record of building partnerships between the public and private sectors, and recognizes the important role Madison’s public schools play in developing our future workforce and strengthening our community.”
Mo brings a deep and longstanding commitment to Madison’s public schools and civic life. He previously served on the MPSF Board of Directors and was the founding board chair of Schools Make Madison Advocates, the Foundation’s affiliated advocacy organization. A former three-term Madison Common Council member, Mo has spent two decades working at the intersection of civic leadership, technology, and mission-driven organizations. He currently serves as Executive Director of Power to the Polls Wisconsin.
“Public schools are one of the few places left in this country where people from all walks of life share the same space,” said Cheeks. “When schools are strong, communities are strong. The Madison Public Schools Foundation has played an important role in strengthening our community for nearly 25 years, and I’m excited to deepen partnerships and help ensure the Foundation’s impact is felt in every school across the district.”
Mo succeeds Melinda Heinritz, who has led the Foundation since 2016. Under her leadership, MPSF expanded its advocacy efforts, strengthened community partnerships, advanced major referendum campaigns, and significantly increased fundraising to support Madison’s public schools.
MMSD Superintendent Joe Gothard welcomed the announcement, emphasizing the Foundation’s important partnership with the district.
“Mo’s leadership, established trust in the community, and passion for public education make him exceptionally well-suited to guide the Foundation,” Gothard said. “I look forward to partnering with Mo to expand private investment in our schools as we advance the priorities outlined in our MMSD: Excellence Together strategic plan.”
As President, Mo will oversee the Foundation’s fundraising, advocacy, community engagement, and strategic initiatives while leading an eight-person staff and stewarding more than $14 million in assets.
Please join us in welcoming Mo to the Madison Public Schools Foundation!
