The LeFevre Foundation was recognized as the 2024 Outstanding Foundation by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Central Ohio Chapter at their annual National Philanthropy Day Celebration on November 26, 2024. David Fryman, Chairman and third generation to lead The LeFevre Foundation, accepted the award on the foundation’s behalf.
“This is truly a great honor,” he shared while accepting the honor. “My grandfather was certainly successful in passing on the philanthropic bug to his family.” David’s remarks acknowledged the joy of seeing those in attendance gathered in a common unified interest in bettering our community.
The LeFevre Foundation was founded by local philanthropist Howard LeFevre in 1985. Mr. LeFevre graduated from The Ohio State University in 1929 with a degree in architectural engineering. In 1946, he founded B&L Motor Freight which was later renamed Truck One. As an active member of the Newark Chamber of Commerce, Mr. LeFevre was instrumental in helping to establish Ohio State’s first regional campus in 1957. He saw the importance of a local university campus for the betterment of individuals and for the betterment of Licking County.
Mr. LeFevre also supported Central Ohio Technical College, serving on its Board of Trustees for 38 years. He was instrumental in the creation of the Newark Campus Development Fund. LeFevre Hall permanently recognizes his years of commitment to this campus. Ohio State Newark’s LeFevre Fellows program, which is funded by the LeFevre Foundation, provides students a scholarship and the opportunity to participate in a service-learning course. LeFevre Fellows contribute 30 hours of community service per semester.
Considered one of the most influential men in the history of Licking County, Howard LeFevre’s legacy plays an integral role in the success of The Ohio State University at Newark and Central Ohio Technical College and many other worthwhile endeavors throughout our community.
Photo cutline: (Left) David Fryman addresses the crowd at the National Day of Philanthropy celebration; (Right) Family and Trustees of The LeFevre Foundation pose with their “Outstanding Foundation” Award
