BW finance and marketing grad leads Operation Support Our Troops-America

After co-founding Operation Support our Troops - America (OSOT-America) in 2003, BW alumnus Bill Rickert '79 has taken over as interim executive director, using his advanced corporate leadership experience to buoy this non-profit, community-based organization supporting American forces.

OSOT board chair Justin Smitherman told the Chicago Tribune, "Bill has been an integral part of OSOT-America since the beginning and has an intimate understanding of the programs, people and events of the organization. In addition, Bill brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership and a deep passion for the mission."

The nonprofit's mission is "to support the morale and well-being of American forces by providing comfort, resources and education to them and their families both while they are deployed in harm's way and after their return."

Rickert, who majored in marketing and finance as a BW undergrad, has extensive knowledge of organizational structure and development, most recently demonstrated as a managing partner for Goal Line Strategies.

Smitherman added, "The Rickert family has played a vital role in the development, success, growth and direction of this organization, and we are blessed to be able to count on them once again."