It may seem like déjà vu: Vern Snyder, UT vice president for institutional advancement, will retire July 15.
Snyder
“I was honored by the request and happy to return as the presidential search was conducted,” Snyder said. “I believe Dr. Sharon Gaber will bring a new level of energy and excitement to the campus and community.”
Witt/Keiffer of Oak Brook, Ill., which assisted with the UT presidential search, is helping to find candidates for the University’s next vice president for advancement.
That person will have some big shoes to fill.
More than $200 million was raised in support of the University during Snyder’s tenure, which began in 2002. He led UT’s “The Time Is Now” capital campaign, which surpassed its goal and raised $106 million.
Also under Snyder’s leadership:
• Fundraising was successful for several capital projects, including the Savage & Associates Complex for Business Learning and Engagement, Savage Arena, Fetterman Training Center, George Isaac Minimally Invasive Surgery Center and Veterans’ Plaza.
• The largest gift in UT’s history, $15 million, was secured to name the Judith Herb College of Education.
• UT’s donor recognition program was revamped to more effectively honor contributors across campuses.
• The UT Division of Institutional Advancement began a merger with the UT Foundation, which will save the University approximately $4.7 million in operational costs annually when complete.
UT is in the midst of a $200 million capital campaign, “A University Rising,” and Snyder will leave the person chosen as his successor a strong team and a record of outstanding philanthropic success, according to UT Interim President Nagi Naganathan.
“The University of Toledo continues to be a special place for so many students thanks to Vern and his great team,” Naganathan said. “Their hard work and dedication combined with donors’ generosity have made higher education affordable for thousands who have benefited from scholarships.”
In 2010, Snyder earned the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive credential, the highest certification from the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Two colleagues in the UT Foundation, Barbara Tartaglia-Poure and Brett Loney, followed his example and achieved the distinction earlier this year. UT is the only institution in the nation that has three members who have the distinguished designation, which is held by 107 professionals in the world.
“Vern exemplifies the very best of the profession,” said Brenda Lee, UT Foundation president. “He is a tremendous colleague and friend. The University community was fortunate to have him serve so long. He will be missed.”
For those who want to stop in and say goodbye, Snyder will be honored at a reception Monday, June 29, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Driscoll Alumni Center Schmakel Room.
