In 2012, Marian University combined the functions of marketing communications, advancement, and alumni relations into a comprehensive, coordinated unit, under the direction of Senior Vice President Dan Conway.
Conway has been working to create an organization that maximizes the effectiveness of each component. Recently, a decision was made to separate alumni and annual giving to permit appropriate focus on each activity.
Barbara Stuckwisch, formerly director of alumni and donor relations, has elected to assume full-time responsibility for annual and planned giving. She will focus on improving communications with young graduates and building the senior class gift program, a foundation for future contributions.
John Purcell '74 has agreed to serve as interim director of alumni relations. Purcell will help lead the effort to reshape the alumni relationship, building on his experience as an active alumnus to advance the mission of Marian University. Purcell can be contacted at
alumni@marian.edu or
jpurcell@marian.edu.
In 2013, Matt Browning '00 will begin his second year as alumni board president. Browning leads an outstanding alumni board that is focused on traditional alumni activities, but is also looking to create more ways for alumni and current faculty and staff to interact.
President Daniel Elsener commented on the changes: "I am sincerely grateful to Barbara Stuckwisch, John Purcell, and Matt Browning for their generous service to the Marian University community. We are looking forward to new directions and opportunities to advance the university's mission, values, and priorities."