Georgia College & State University welcomes Dr. Shelley Strickland, who has been selected to serve as vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the GCSU Foundation.

“The mission of Georgia College as the state's designated public liberal arts university resonates with me deeply,” said Strickland. “I am excited to be part of advancing the institution under the strategic and visionary leadership of President Cathy Cox to even greater distinction and impact.”

Strickland currently serves as the vice president for Philanthropy at Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation in Michigan. In that capacity, she was instrumental in doubling the assets of the foundation from $75 million to $200 million. She also has held concurrent appointments at the University of Michigan, teaching an undergraduate philanthropy course and designing a concentration in fundraising and philanthropy for a master’s degree program.

“Georgia College & State University will benefit greatly from her broad experience in both public and private universities as well as from the expertise she gained working in philanthropy beyond higher education,” said President Cathy Cox.

“She is joining us at an exciting time and will have the opportunity to enhance our capable team in fundraising, alumni relations and donor engagement by filling a number of vacancies in the advancement office and putting her own touch on its strategic direction,” Cox added. “I look forward to working with her as we lay the foundation for ambitious philanthropic goals and aspirations.”

Strickland has worked for Emory University, where she trained development and alumni staff. She also has University System of Georgia experience from her employment at Kennesaw State University as director of foundation relations. Strickland began her career in fundraising working for Western Michigan University as their annual giving director, following years in marketing communications.

Strickland also has deep expertise across philanthropy, alumni relations, donor stewardship and board of trustee relations. She also has significant experience building and managing effective teams, as well as planning for ambitious campaigns.

She also has an impressive academic record, including numerous publications and presentations. She earned her undergraduate degree in English from Western Michigan University and her master’s degree in English from the University of Virginia. In 2013, she was awarded a Ph.D. in Higher Education from the University of Michigan.

Strickland will start her position at Georgia College & State University on July 1, 2022.