The Organization
On April 28, 2022, The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) welcomed Jennifer Cowley, Ph.D., as its first female and 10th overall president. President Cowley’s goals for UTA include raising its standing on the national stage, putting the University on outstanding financial footing, and building a first-rate development program to significantly increase alumni engagement and philanthropic support. To achieve these ambitions, the University invites applications, expressions of interest, and nominations of candidates in its search for a Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations.
Position Overview
The Vice President will report to President Cowley. This new leader will serve as a member of the President’s senior staff and will lead the development team to create and execute strategies, programs, and budgets that effectively communicate the President’s vision to key stakeholders and secure philanthropic resources.
UTA is in a uniquely strong position, enjoying new levels of achievement and stability. UTA has attracted its largest freshman class ever and now supports approximately 48,000 students. The University’s more than 250,000 alumni are making an impact across Texas and around the globe. The University’s innovating and evolving. Leadership across UTA is ready to dedicate the attention and investment needed to bring the development program up to the level of the best contemporary fundraising operations.
The University of Texas System Board of Regents, in concert with President Cowley, has identified the transformation of the development program as one of UTA’s most important strategic priorities. Success in this endeavor requires a development leader with significant experience in high-performing fundraising programs and the ability to lead compellingly in both word and deed. The Vice President will possess exceptional leadership, communication, and management skills and experience as well as a track record of success as a fundraiser, collaborator with faculty, and builder of programs and staff.
Experience in higher education and with one or more institutions as comprehensive and complex as UTA is highly preferred. Leadership experience in campaign planning and a bachelor’s degree are required, though an advanced degree is preferred.
President Cowley is challenging UTA to be more innovative and strategic in an effort to become one of the nation’s most inclusive and impactful research universities. President Cowley has outlined her strategic vision, with plans to focus on four key themes: People and Culture, Student Success, Research and Innovation, and Alumni and Community Engagement. With increased support and engagement, the new Vice President can help to build a more just, humane, and inclusive community. UTA’s new Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations will have the opportunity to have a significant, personal impact on UTA’s success.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is committed to providing equal employment and educational opportunities for all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, disabilities, pregnancy, genetic information, and/or veteran status. Retaliation against persons who oppose a discriminatory practice, file a charge of discrimination, or testify for, assist in, or participate in an investigative proceeding relating to discrimination is prohibited. See the University of Texas at Arlington’s Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information.
How To Apply
All applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile found at www.wittkieffer.com. Application materials should be submitted using WittKieffer’s candidate portal. Applications, nominations, and expressions of interest will be treated in full confidence. References will not be contacted without prior knowledge and approval of candidates. Nominations and inquiries can be directed to Mercedes Chacòn Vance and Ashlee Winters at UTAVPDev@WittKieffer.com.