Lander University Advancement took two steps forward this spring with the hiring of Jessica Harris and Lindsey Loftus.
Hailing from different parts of Ohio, Loftus and Harris both have longtime backgrounds in alumni relations, fundraising, marketing, and donor relations - and their new presence at Lander is another move toward the university's growth and future.
"We're excited to have Jessica and Lindsey on our team," said Mike Worley, vice president for University Advancement. "They each bring a lot of experience to their role, and both will lead fundraising initiatives to build our endowments."
Harris, for instance, is certified in Blackbaud Raiser's Edge and Financial Edge - software solutions built specifically to support fundraising efforts and donor management. She brings her expertise to Lander after three years at Georgia State University in Atlanta, and after spending "a lot of time in Alaska."
"But I went to school in South Carolina and Ohio," said Harris, who holds two Masters degrees in both arts administration and business administration from the University of Cincinnati. "Here at Lander, I will be in charge of designing a new database - leading the transition from Banner to Raiser's Edge - to keep the Lander Foundation moving forward."
Loftus, on the other hand, has been involved in university fundraising for 32 years, ever since his days at Kent State University. Whether it's private support for capital growth and programs, planned or unrestricted gifts, or different scholarships, Loftus intends to make Lander "the philanthropy of choice for our alumni and friends."
"I will focus on Lander University alumni, and also work with parents and friends of the university," said Loftus, whose hometown is Tiltonsville, Ohio. "The opportunity to be a part of a forward-looking team is what every professional dreams of."
When asked why they chose Lander, Loftus and Harris essentially gave the same answer: "timing and vision."
"The entire atmosphere at Lander is one primed for growth and change, and the university is poised to make advancements for all the right reasons," Harris said.
Loftus added, "The most exciting part for me about coming here is that it's an opportunity to positively affect our students and help them realize their dreams."