Chief Executive Officer

Steve Bumbaugh

Steve Bumbaugh brings an exceptional combination of educational leadership, philanthropic expertise, and a deep commitment to expanding opportunities for all students. Prior to becoming Chief Executive Officer of CEE,  Steve most recently served as a senior executive at College Board, where he spearheaded the development of innovative digital tools to help underserved students successfully navigate the transition from high school to college and access greater career opportunities.

Before his work at College Board, Steve was president of the ECMC Foundation, guiding the organization’s education portfolio with a focus on improving student outcomes. He also led CityBridge Foundation’s Breakthrough Schools: D.C. competition, which partnered with public schools to advance personalized learning and drive student achievement. Earlier in his career, as the first executive director of the Specialty Family Foundation, Steve championed initiatives that expanded access to education, health, and food security in under-resourced communities.

A former classroom teacher, Steve has dedicated his career to expanding access, equity, and excellence in education. Across each role, he has worked to ensure that students—particularly those from underserved backgrounds—have the quality tools, resources, and knowledge they need to reach their full potential.