RETIREMENT OF PRESIDENT GENE E. KEENE

On December 31, 2021, Gene E. Keene will retire as President and CEO of The Free Methodist Foundation (FMF). Gene succeeded founding president Stanley B. Thompson on January 1, 2004. Staff and board members of FMF gathered on October 15, 2021, to celebrate the ministry of FMF. At that celebration, Gene received a joint resolution of appreciation from The Free Methodist Church – USA and The Free Methodist Foundation. In part, that resolution stated,

Under Mr. Keene’s insightful and wise stewardship, the funds under management by FMF grew from $187 million to $555 million. Loans to Free Methodist churches, educational institutions and social welfare organizations increased from $27 million to $113 million.

Gene E. Keene has been an effective advocate for all who use the services of The Free Methodist Foundation. His counsel, influence, and prudent concern for the welfare of The Free Methodist Church – USA and The Free Methodist Foundation, their ministries, affiliate organizations, pastors, and congregants, has always been apparent and appreciated.

Gene E. Keene is a humble man who exudes hospitality. He has been happily married to Linda for 53 years, and together they have 3 children, 7 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Gene and Linda’s home has always been open for meals, drop-in visitors, and overnight guests. Gene E. Keene has earned the title of “good and faithful servant”.

The FMF Board of Directors has named Mark S. Olson as the third President and CEO of The Free Methodist Foundation. He will begin his duties on January 1, 2022. He is currently Executive Vice President of The Free Methodist Foundation and President of GuideStream Financial, a subsidiary of FMF.

Please join us in thanking Gene for his leadership over the last 18 years. We wish him and Linda all the best as they head into their new adventure!