UCF Welcomes New Development and Alumni Relations Leader

Rod Grabowski

This past week has been an exciting breath of fresh air for the UC community.  On June 3, 2013, Rodney Grabowski began his role as the President of the University of Cincinnati (UC) Foundation and Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations, and acquainted himself with his colleagues at the UC Foundation All-Staff Meeting on June 10, 2013.

He comes from the University of South Florida (USF) with over 20 years of fundraising experience, where he served as the Senior Associate Vice President for University Advancement and Campaign Director.  He was responsible for the branding and successful completion of the USF Unstoppable Campaign, the university’s largest fundraising and outreach effort ever with an annual giving program in excess of $85 million.

Prior to his tenure at USF, Rod held key development positions at the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Alfred University in New York.  In addition to his 23 years of fundraising, leadership and management experience, and charisma, he brings a strong understanding of higher education’s unique fundraising landscape.

“I am pleased to welcome such an accomplished, energetic and enthusiastic individual to the UC family,” said UC President Santa J. Ono.  “Rod’s fundraising expertise and ambitious attitude will be an asset to the university.”

The senior team, including Rod Grabowski (featured second
on left) recognizes staff with a thank you lunch. 

In other words, he’s perfect for the job.  The Proudly Cincinnati campaign pushed UC into the top one percent of all colleges and universities when it reached its goal of $1 billion four months ahead of schedule, and plans to break another record by reaching 100,000 donors  before the campaign’s end.

“Rod possesses the visionary leadership needed to help us achieve our strategic goals for the university, and I am honored to call him my colleague.”

Visit our website for more information about Rodney Grabowski or the 100k Strong Challenge. Welcome Rodney to the university with a comment below!