Giving Forward: UF Welcomes New Associate Vice President for Development

“I’m a strong believer in the idea of giving forward. I earned my degree as a first generation student, and I recognize the impact higher education can make on a person’s life. By investing in higher education, we invest in future generations allowing them to reach their greatest potential and become leaders in today’s world,” says Michael Volan, who joins The University of Findlay’s Division of University Advancement as associate vice president for development this spring.

When Volan toured the University he recognized “the great tradition of education at UF and the way the curriculum is adapting and changing to meet the needs of current and future students.” Under the leadership of the vice president for University Advancement, Volan will manage the development staff, expand strategies in engaging and involving donors in the University’s capital campaign, and build collaborative working relationships with academic deans and volunteers that inform the fund development process. “Everything we do in University Advancement is intertwined whether it’s engaging alumni, promoting annual giving or cultivating leadership gifts,” explains Volan.
“He brings to our team a strong commitment to higher education and a breadth of experience at both small and large institutions,” says Dr. Marcia Sloan Latta, vice president for University Advancement. Volan previously worked for RuffaloCODY, a fundraising solutions firm, as well as the University of Cincinnati Foundation, the Athenaeum of Ohio, Franciscan at St. John, and Dan Beard Council of Boy Scouts of America. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Cincinnati, McMicken College of Arts and Sciences and has been recognized under the professional designation of certified fund raising executive since 2000.