Description
VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT AND FOUNDATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY
For more information, please see the full profile at the link below:
https://myersmcrae.com/skins/userfiles/files/Florida-AM_VP-Advancement-2025-FINAL.pdf
Florida A&M University seeks a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as the Vice President for University Advancement and Foundation Executive Director. This executive position will play a crucial role in advancing the University’s mission, vision, and strategic goals through fundraising, alumni relations, and public engagement initiatives.
Founded in 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), located in Tallahassee, is the third oldest university in the State University System of Florida and is the state’s only public historically Black university. FAMU is an energetic and dynamic institution, acclaimed for the excellent achievement of its students, alumni, faculty, and its contribution to society in the pursuit of education and research. The university works every day to continue to propel itself to the forefront of innovation and scholarship. In recent years, the University has doubled its research expenditures and outpaced its peers in student achievement rates.
With an enrollment of nearly 10,000 students, FAMU ranks among the nation’s Top 100 public universities in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” ranking, landing at #81; #3 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU); #1 public HBCU; #20 for Social Mobility; and #152 among National Universities.
FAMU’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of discovery propels it forward as one of the nation’s best public universities. Across disciplines, FAMU’s world-class researchers seek answers to some of humanity’s most challenging problems, addressing issues that impact Florida, the nation and beyond. With $112.4M (FY24) in research awards, FAMU is on the precipice to achieve Carnegie Classification of Institutions
of Higher Education’s highest and most coveted Very High Research Activity status (R1) in the next
few years.
FAMU’s 14 colleges and schools, offering more than 60 undergraduate and 40 graduate degree programs, through its College of Agriculture and Food Sciences; College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences; Institute of Public Health; College of Education; College of Law; College of Science and Technology; College of Social Sciences, Arts, and Humanities; FAMU-FSU College of Engineering; School of Allied Health Sciences; School of Architecture & Engineering Technology; School of Business and Industry; School
of Graduate Studies and Research; School of Journalism & Graphic Communications; School of Nursing; and School of the Environment.
The University offers more than 100 student organizations and several fraternities and sororities. FAMU is a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and fields 14 NCAA Division 1 athletic teams.
In addition to the main Tallahassee campus, FAMU has several satellite campuses across Florida. These include the College of Law in Orlando and the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, which has sites in Crestview, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami.
FAMU VISION
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University will be recognized as a leading national public university that is internationally renowned for its competitive graduates, transformative research,
and innovation.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Florida A&M University seeks a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as the Vice President of University Advancement and Foundation Executive Director. This executive position will play a crucial role in advancing the university’s mission, vision, and strategic goals through fundraising, alumni relations, and public engagement initiatives.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Fundraising Leadership:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support FAMU’s academic programs, research initiatives, athletics, and student success.
- Lead major gift solicitations and cultivate relationships with high-net-worth individuals, corporations, and foundations.
- Oversee capital campaigns and special fundraising initiatives.
Alumni Relations:
- Strengthen relationships with FAMU alumni worldwide, fostering a culture of engagement and philanthropic support.
- Develop programs and events to keep alumni connected to the University.
Strategic Planning:
- Collaborate with the President and other senior leaders to align advancement efforts with the university’s strategic plan.
- Set ambitious yet achievable fundraising goals and metrics for success.
Team Leadership:
- Manage and mentor the Advancement team, including development officers, alumni relations staff, and support personnel.
- Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration within the department.
Public Relations and Communications:
- Serve as a key spokesperson for FAMU’s advancement initiatives.
- Oversee the development of marketing and communication strategies to support fundraising and alumni engagement efforts.
Financial Management:
- Manage the Advancement department’s budget effectively.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant policies, procedures, and regulations related to fundraising and financial management.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in higher education advancement or a related field.
- Proven track record of successful fundraising, including major gift solicitations and campaign management.
- Strong leadership and team-building skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Deep understanding of the unique mission and challenges of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
FAMU BOLDLY STRIKING STATEGIC PLAN
Click to download the plan
FAMU MISSION
FAMU is an 1890 land grant, doctoral/research institution devoted to student success at the undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and professional levels. FAMU enhances the lives of its constituents and empowers communities through innovative teaching, research, scholarship, partnerships, and public service. The University continues its rich legacy and historic mission of educating African Americans.
FAMU VALUES
FAMU is committed to the values of accountability, Inclusion, innnovation, and integrity. The University also values and endorses the Board of Governors’ Statement of Free Expression and expects open-minded and tolerant civil discourse to take place throughout the campus community.
FAMU BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The FAMU Board of Trustees is the governing body
of the University and is charged with policymaking for the University. Trustees serve without compensation and meet at least quarterly. The president serves as the corporate secretary to the Board of Trustees. The president has the responsibility for the day-to-day management of the University.
FAMU FOUNDATION
The FAMU Foundation is a non-profit, direct support organization, established with the specific mandate to serve as a custodian of contributions from the private sector, alumni, friends, and industry. The Foundation receives, invests, and administers funds. The University president serves as an ex-officio member of the Board of Directors.
PRESIDENT MARVA B. JOHNSON, J.D.
Marva Johnson has been appointed as the next president of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), bringing a wealth of experience in education, leadership, and public policy to the role. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, President Johnson has been a prominent figure in both the public and private sectors.
She previously served as the Vice President of State Government Affairs for Charter Communications in the Southern Region and has held leadership positions on various educational boards, including the Florida State Board of Education, where she served as Chair.
President Johnson’s expertise in technology, education policy, and community engagement has made her a respected voice in shaping Florida’s educational landscape.
As FAMU’s president, Johnson is poised to lead the university into a new era of growth and innovation. Her vision for FAMU includes strengthening its position as a premier Historically Black University, enhancing academic programs, fostering research initiatives, and expanding opportunities for student success.
President Johnson’s appointment marks a significant milestone for FAMU, as she brings a unique blend of corporate experience, policy acumen, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing higher education in the 21st century. Her leadership is expected to build upon FAMU’s rich legacy while propelling the institution to-wards new heights of academic excellence and community impact.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA
Tallahassee is the site of the Florida State Capitol, Supreme Court of Florida, Florida Governor’s Mansion, and nearly 30 state agency headquarters as well as Florida A&M University.
The city is a recognized regional center for scientific research, and home to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. In 2015, Tallahassee was awarded the All-America City Award by the National Civic League for the second time.
Close to the Gulf of Mexico, there is a plethora of things to do in Tallahassee. Great adventures and sites include the beaches, the Tallahassee Museum, the Florida History Museum, St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, Mission St. Luis de Apalachee, St. Marks Lighthouse, the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, Railroad Square Art District, the Meek-Eaton Black Archives Research Center and Museum at FAMU, the Goodwood Museum and Gardens, Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, Cascades Park, and many more walking and biking trails, outdoor exploration, and activities. Restaurants and shops are plentiful and superb.
Tallahassee is also known for its fabulous festivals and events, such as the Tallahassee Food and Wine Festival, the Greek Food Festival, the Harambee Festival, Springtime Tallahassee, First Friday festivals
at Railroad Square, and Downtown Getdowns.
APPLICATION & NOMINATION PROCESS
Confidential inquiries are welcomed, and nominations are invited.
Applications
1) All application packet must include the following:
a) A letter of application that addresses the responsibilities and qualifications of the position
b) Current résumé
c) At least four references with full contact information including e-mail (References will not be contacted
without consent from applicant.)
A background and criminal report will be conducted on the finalists selected for campus interviews.
2) Submit application materials online, preferably as PDFs. Additional information will be requested upon receipt of application. Review of applications begins immediately. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Nominations
Submit nominations with complete contact and e-mail information for the individual being nominated.
Consultant
Brianna Douglas, Vice President Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting, is conducting this search. Request a conversation at briannadouglas@myersmcrae.com.
The Florida A&M University (FAMU) is committed, as evident in our policies, principles and practices, to an educational environment and equal opportunity workplace wherein each member of the University community is free from any form of harassment and discrimination. Therefore, the University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, age, disability, sex, sexual harassment, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, genetic information, and veteran status, or any other legally protected group status (including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972), in accordance with state and federal laws. Discriminatory conduct in the form of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, and stalking, is also prohibited.
