USFSM hires regional vice chancellor to lead fundraising

“USFSM is an amazing place, and I’m completely thrilled to return to the USF family,” said Williams, who previously worked at the USF Foundation in Tampa as well as other institutions during the past 25 years. “I look forward to working with academic and community leaders to expand the philanthropic opportunities that improve the lives of our students and faculty and enhance the communities in which we live.”

In her new position, Williams will oversee university advancement and alumni affairs. One of her immediate, high-priority goals is to raise capital for USFSM’s planned STEM building, although she remains focused on other objectives and events as well, such as Brunch on the Bay, the campus’ primary fundraiser of scholarships, and the NCAA USF women’s rowing team initiative. Expect also to see her at many of Sarasota-Manatee’s important social events in coming months.

“We are fortunate to have Lee join our Senior Leadership Team to drive our fundraising efforts,” said Dr. Terry Osborn, interim regional chancellor for USFSM. “As we continue to grow and boost our research efforts, it is imperative that we are here to support our community. Lee will work to develop our community relationships to ensure we are serving as the hometown university for this area.”

Prior to joining USFSM, Williams served as interim senior vice president of development and alumni relations at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach. In addition to her earlier role at USF in Tampa, Williams held fundraising positions at Mississippi State University, George Washington University, the Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. In 2015, she founded the consulting company, Williams & Associates.

She holds a B.S. in secondary education, an M.S. in public relations from the University of Southern Mississippi and is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) through the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

“I am delighted to work with Lee again,” said Dr. Karen Holbrook, who serves as senior advisor to USF System President Dr. Judy Genshaft and executive vice president of USFSM, and who previously worked with Williams at Embry-Riddle.

“She has a passion for USFSM, appreciates the remarkable potential of this university and is already engaged in our community,” she said. “Her enthusiasm and energy fit perfectly with this vibrant, growing institution.”

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