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Kent State University Search for Vice President, Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement

Kent State University seeks a strategic, externally engaged Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement. Reporting to the President, this leader will provide direction for university-wide philanthropy and alumni engagement, while serving as a visible partner to the President, Board of Trustees, Foundation Board, deans, campus leaders, alumni, donors, and volunteers.

The Vice President will lead a comprehensive strategy that strengthens philanthropic support, deepens alumni connection, and aligns donor engagement with the university’s mission and priorities. This role requires a collaborative and trusted leader who can inspire confidence across internal and external audiences while building the relationships, systems and culture needed to support long-term institutional success.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. 
  • A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in advancement, including at least five years in fundraising for a large, complex organization and experience with comprehensive campaigns including strategy, volunteer leadership, and strategic planning.

APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS 

AGB Search is pleased to assist Kent State University with this leadership search.

To apply for the Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement position, candidates are requested to submit the following:

  • A current resume; 
  • A letter of interest that addresses how the candidate’s experiences and qualifications connect with the required/preferred characteristics and priorities as expressed in this position profile; and
  • Contact information for five references (to be contacted with the candidate’s permission at a later date).

For best consideration, applications should be submitted by August 31, 2026, to the AGB Search portal for the Kent State VP for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement position. 

The search will remain open until an appointment is made. 

Nominations, expressions of interest, and questions regarding the Vice President for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement can be directed to KentStateVP_PAE@agbsearch.com or the AGB Search consultants listed below:

Search Committee 

  • Melody Tankersley, Executive Vice President and Provost, Search Committee Chair
  • James Bailey, Chair, Kent State University Foundation Board of Directors 
  • Rick Ferdig, Summit Professor of Learning Technologies and Professor of Engineering
  • Steffany Matticola Larkins, Kent State University Foundation Board of Directors, Chair, Committee on Audit 
  • Charlene Reed, Vice President and University Secretary

  • Stephen Ward, Vice President, University Communications and Marketing 

     

 

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