Catherine Forsch is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the Foundation, including setting organizational goals, developing budgets, building and sustaining partnerships, leading fundraising initiatives, and ensuring strong financial practices.

She joined the Foundation as Development Director in October 2016 and was promoted to CEO in January 2018. As CEO, she serves as the lead strategist for fundraising and program development to advance the organization’s mission. She works closely with the Foundation board and staff, the State Historical Society staff and Trustees, volunteers, and key partners to secure private funding, sponsorships, and grants.

Together with the finance director and the board of directors, Forsch oversees all financial accounts, endowments, and campaigns, setting and achieving financial goals. She also works with the board and staff to increase membership for the State Historical Society.

In the nonprofit field, Forsch has served as Enterprise Director of Donor Relations for Sanford Health Foundation, Executive Director of the South Dakota Lions Foundation, and Director of Development and Marketing at EmBe/YWCA. She is a past president of the South Dakota Association for Fundraising Professionals and served for many years as a cabinet member for the Sioux Empire United Way.

Forsch holds a B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communications from South Dakota State University. She has 20 years of marketing experience, including twelve years with the Argus Leader in Sioux Falls. In March 2022, she was honored by the Sioux Empire United Way with the David Birkeland Memorial Award for her servant leadership in both her community and professional life.