Exciting New Leadership: University Appoints Vice President for Advancement

David Unruh has been named the new vice president for University Advancement at GW. Starting August 1, he will replace Donna Arbide, who left the position to focus on her health.

Unruh comes from Drexel University, where he served as senior vice president for institutional advancement since 2014. His experience spans various universities, including notable roles at the University of Chicago and Temple University. This background equips him to enhance GW’s fundraising efforts and strengthen alumni relations.

The office’s name recently changed from the Division of Development and Alumni Relations to Division of University Advancement. This shift reflects a renewed commitment to engagement with alumni and donors.

In a recent statement, Unruh acknowledged the challenges facing higher education today. He remarked on GW’s strong sense of community and strategic direction under President Granberg. Unruh’s goal is to foster closer ties with alumni by offering tailored opportunities. Younger alumni, for instance, may seek social and career networking, while older alumni may cherish nostalgic experiences.

Unruh believes understanding the interests and motivations of potential donors is key. By recognizing what drives them, he aims to connect their passions with the university’s vision, helping both the institution and its supporters achieve their goals.

Interestingly, according to a recent survey by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), 70% of alumni feel a strong connection with their alma maters when offered opportunities to engage with current students. This aligns with Unruh’s focus on meaningful alumni experiences.

Moreover, Unruh’s compensation package includes a base salary of $650,000, reflecting the significance of this role in shaping the university’s future. As the university navigates current challenges, Unruh’s leadership may help bridge gaps between past alumni experiences and future engagement.

As the search continues for a new provost to replace Chris Bracey, who will step down in June, Unruh’s appointment marks a critical step for GW in strengthening its community and enhancing educational outcomes.



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