Brodeen to lead Outside Foundation

The Outside Foundation has appointed Ruth Brodeen as its new executive director, succeeding founding Executive Director Jean Fruh, who will retire Oct. 31 after leading the organization since 2014.

The foundation’s board of directors selected Brodeen following a search. She will oversee day-to-day operations, strategic planning, program development, budget management, board development, staff supervision, fundraising and donor cultivation.

Brodeen has more than 20 years of experience with organizations focused on education and programs serving youth, women and underserved communities. Her experience includes nonprofit leadership, strategic planning, fundraising and community engagement.

served for eight years as executive director of India Transformed!, where she led fundraising initiatives that included raising more than $21 million to build a college campus in Bangalore for marginalized students.

She also spent a decade with SAGE Global Education, designing and leading experiential learning programs involving environmental conservation and cultural preservation projects.

“The Outside Foundation’s work reflects everything I care about, connecting people to the outdoors, protecting fragile ecosystems, and inspiring stewardship that lasts a lifetime,” Brodeen said. “I am deeply honored to follow Dr. Jean Fruh, whose vision and leadership built a remarkable foundation for environmental education and conservation in the Lowcountry.”

Fruh has led the Outside Foundation since its founding in 2014.

“Jean’s leadership, passion and commitment have shaped the Outside Foundation into the organization it is today,” board Chairman Ron Miele said.

“We are incredibly grateful for her years of service and the strong foundation she has created.”