Celebrating John Bergholz’s Impact at IWP

John Bergholz is known to many of IWP’s supporters as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement, a role he has held since 2017. Over the past several years, John has played a central role in strengthening IWP’s advancement efforts – raising both awareness and critical support for the school, while helping position the institution for long-term success. As he concludes his service in this role this February, IWP celebrates his many achievements and lasting impact.

John joined IWP following a distinguished career in fundraising across higher education, social services, and the arts, bringing with him deep expertise and a relationship-driven approach to advancement.

“John’s fundraising expertise, strong relationships with our supporters, and collegial approach have benefited IWP for years,” said Ariane Sweeney, Executive Vice President of IWP. “We are deeply grateful for the time, talent, and leadership that he has devoted to advancing IWP’s mission.”

During his tenure, John traveled extensively to meet IWP’s fundraising goals, identified and recruited several new IWP Trustees, and helped establish new IWP Chancellor’s Council Chapters, including in Dallas/Fort Worth, and Phoenix/Scottsdale. His leadership helped expand IWP’s national footprint and deepen engagement with supporters across the country.

Within the Advancement Office, John created IWP’s annual giving program, established a moves management system, and helped launch the alumni giving program.

He also played a key role in developing IWP’s planned giving efforts, launching the John Jay Legacy Society and assisting supporters with legacy gifts—including helping to orchestrate the largest planned gift in IWP’s history.

These efforts have strengthened IWP’s advancement infrastructure and positioned the institution well as it enters its 36th year.

As John looks ahead to his next chapter, he plans to continue pursuing one of his great passions: marathon running. In October 2025, he completed both the Chicago Marathon and the Marine Corps Marathon, bringing his total number of marathons to 46. He is also a rare Abbott Marathon Majors Six Star finisher, having completed the world’s six major marathons—Chicago, Boston, New York, Berlin, London, and most recently, Tokyo. Only 17,679 runners worldwide have achieved this distinction out of an estimated 10–13 million marathoners over the past two decades.

Beyond his own races, John has encouraged, coached, and trained numerous friends, colleagues, and neighbors to complete their first marathons, and he has run marathons alongside all four of his children.

John is also a Sho Dan in the Shotokan School of Karate. In 2016, he completed the Chicago Marathon and later that day competed in the Illinois Shotokan Karate Tournament, placing fourth in his division. He repeated this feat in 2023.

IWP extends its sincere thanks to John Bergholz for his years of service, leadership, and dedication. His work has left a strong foundation for continued success, and we wish him every success in the exciting next chapter ahead.