Communication to the community announcing the selection of Julie Lucas
In an exciting development for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Julie A. Lucas has been appointed as the new Vice President for Resource Development, starting in November. This move comes after Kirk Kolenbrander, who had been serving in the role temporarily, delivered superb results in steering Resource Development through an uncertain time.
Julie Lucas, an accomplished leader in university advancement, brings nearly three decades of experience at major universities across the United States to her new role. Known for her inclusive leadership, ability to build high-performing teams, and a strong track record in fundraising and alumni relations, Lucas is poised to make a significant impact at MIT.
Prior to her appointment at MIT, Lucas held key positions at universities such as USC and NYU. Her fundraising successes include securing transformational gifts and increasing giving rates. Notably, she coordinated a global fundraising initiative for USC and oversaw a 300-person fundraising staff.
At MIT, Lucas will take over from Jeff Newton, who retired almost exactly a year ago. The fiscal year that ended June 30, 2014, was the second strongest year for philanthropic fundraising in MIT's history, a testament to Newton's leadership.
MIT President L. Rafael Reif expressed personal gratitude and admiration for Kolenbrander's willing spirit, dogged perseverance, and masterful management. He also noted that with the leadership team in place, they are ready to get to work.
Lucas's leadership style emphasises collaboration, mentorship, and the strategic use of data and technology to personalise donor engagement and demonstrate impact. Her philosophy, that "success is shared" and that achieving university goals requires the entire community to come together, aligns with MIT's method of building relationships with alumni and friends to create enduring communities.
In her new role, Lucas will continue to build on the professionalism, patience, and grace shown by the staff of Resource Development and the Alumni Association, along with School Development Officers, in handling the challenges of the year. She will also draw on her experience in leading fundraising for the University Village, the largest economic-development project in Southern Los Angeles.
Kolenbrander, who accepted the position of Institute Vice President and Secretary of the MIT Corporation a year ago, in addition to his existing job, in a field he had never worked in before, will continue to be counted on for his qualities as they pursue the Institute's ambitious priorities together.
As MIT embarks on a new chapter in its fundraising efforts, the Institute community looks forward to the vision and leadership that Julie Lucas will bring to the table.
- In her new role as Vice President for Resource Development at MIT, Julie Lucas aims to make a significant impact through her focus on skilled training, education, and self-development, as well as career development.
- The journalist covering the news of Lucas's appointment at MIT highlights her strong track record in alumni relations and fundraising, including securing transformational gifts and increasing giving rates.
- The press release from MIT announces the addition of energy and press to Lucas's areas of responsibility, recognizing her strategic use of data and technology in personalizing donor engagement.
- As education and self-development are key aspects of MIT's philosophy, Lucas's emphasis on mentorship and collaboration aligns perfectly with the institute's approach to building enduring relationships within its community.
