The Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on identifying innovative entrepreneurial ideas, has hired Stephen Sye as executive director, effective July 30.

"Stephen has a wealth of knowledge and experience in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors. His leadership skills and enthusiasm for the entrepreneurial community of Delaware were a perfect match for the vision of the Board and this Foundation," said Scott Malfitano, board chairman.

Sye is a native of South Jersey, but he's been a resident of Delaware for almost a decade. He also attended Tower Hill School and University of Delaware earlier in his life.

"The level of excitement that I feel to work alongside a board of directors of this caliber to improve the lives of Delawareans is indescribable," Sye said. "I am truly honored to have been selected for this important position and look forward to the positive impact the Foundation will have on Delaware's landscape for years to come."

Sye will oversee the foundation's two major initiatives, including the presentation of the Pete du Pont Freedom Award and identification of innovative ideas through the Reinventing Delaware event series. He will also lead fundraising and brand visibility efforts.