Office of Development and Alumni Engagement

Krista Bofill

Executive Vice President & Chief of Development

Krista Bofill

Executive Vice President & Vice President of Development and Alumni Engagement

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Email: [email protected]

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How you can strongly impact Stetson University

Bio

Krista Bofill has more than 25 years of successful and progressive leadership experience in developing and managing donor, investor and constituent relationships, and brings a diverse set of fundraising and higher education experience to the position.

Most recently, Bofill served as vice president of Institutional Advancement and Communications at Converse College, as the institution implemented a new strategic plan and fundraising. She also was a key member of the leadership team, whose work resulted in the creation of Converse University, with Converse College for Women as part of the university.

At Converse, Bofill more than doubled the annual fund, increased the annual run rate of major gifts, created new development events and increased community engagement while implementing a rebrand.

Amy Gipson

Associate Vice President, Development and Communications

Amy Gipson

Associate Vice President, Development and Communications

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Phone: 386-822-7220
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Scholarships, program support, capital projects, corporate philanthropy or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.

Bio

Amy has worked at Stetson for more than a decade, primarily with Development and Alumni Engagement but also with University Marketing and the President’s office. She is a parent of an alumna, now living and working in Washington, D.C., as well as the parent of a current student. Amy works closely with donors on their philanthropic gifts and on initiatives that engage them in the life of the university and enhancing the student experience. As a member of the Development senior leadership team, she also oversees Communications as well as Donor Relations.

With more than 25 years in higher education, Amy previously served as vice president for marketing and communications at Stephens College for nearly seven years before joining Stetson in November 2012. In her 17 years at Stephens, a Missouri women’s college founded in 1833, she helped institute a turnaround marked by increased enrollment, enhanced public relations and partnerships, and revitalized academic and student programs and fundraising. She led the creative direction of recruitment and fundraising campaigns, oversaw the 2007 comprehensive re-accreditation report and visit, served as college spokesperson, and chaired the 175th Anniversary committee. She and her husband, Jason, live in DeLand, and they have two daughters and two dogs. A graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism, Amy also has an MBA from Stetson.

Melanie Laboy

Director of Strategic Initiatives and Campaign Manager for Development and Alumni Engagement

Melanie Laboy

Director of Strategic Initiatives and Campaign Manager for Development and Alumni Engagement

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Phone: 386-822-7457
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Melanie in her role, works closely on philanthropy efforts with the Vice President and Associate Vice President of Development & Alumni Engagement to strategically align development initiatives for funding opportunities. As a member of the leadership team she oversees the division’s administration and also acts as liaison for the vice president to the president’s office as well as the University.

Melanie started her career in higher education with Stetson in 2018 after more than 15 years in the private sector. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce and Political Science and earned her MBA here at Stetson.

Natalia Masia-Gismero

Director of Marketing and Communications

Natalia Masia-Gismero

Director of Marketing and Communications

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Phone: 386-822-7783
Email: [email protected]

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Brand identity, marketing research, telling Stetson stories and increasing awareness.

Bio

Natalia joined the Office of Development and Alumni Engagement in the spring of 2022 after collaborating with Stetson’s Marketing Department for two years. She earned her MBA from Stetson in 2018.

A native of Madrid, Spain, she brings her eleven years of experience in corporate marketing and communications to the development team. She focuses on finding the most attractive and engaging ways to connect with Stetson constituents to generate brand awareness and build long-lasting relationships.

As an experienced communicator and marketing specialist, she supports defining and implementing strategic marketing campaigns and developing effective relationships with internal stakeholders and constituents. Generating creative and engaging content in various printed and online formats, she enjoys conducting research and data analysis to identify needs and trends. In addition, she is interested in integrating internal communications and the organization’s culture to provide exceptional experiences.

She is passionate about finding the human side of marketing practices that focuses on each individual, delivers personalized experiences, and finds the emotional connections that make all of us love Stetson.

Anna Owensby

Associate Director of Development Marketing and Communications

Anna Owensby

Associate Director of Development Marketing and Communications

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Phone: 386-822-7727
Email: [email protected]

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The importance of brand and message consistency.

Bio

Anna joined the Office of Development and Alumni Engagement in the beginning of 2023 as the associate director for marketing and communications with the goal of furthering the philanthropic spirit and involvement of the Stetson community. She comes from the higher education space, previously working as a designer for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Her work includes a range of marketing collateral and visual communications, both in the print and digital spaces, with a focus on strategic solutions to tell the stories that move people.

Anna earned her B.S. in Fine Arts from Florida State University in 2011. Growing up in the central Florida area, she continues to enjoy all the community has to offer with her husband, Clay and three young boys, Noah, Hunter and Parker.

Melissa Atwell

Executive Assistant

Melissa Atwell

Executive Assistant

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Phone: 386-822-7481
Email: [email protected]

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Anything and if I don't know the answer, I'll find it for you!

Bio

Melissa joined Stetson University's Development team in the fall of 2022. As the Executive Assistant to the EVP and VP Development & Alumni Engagement, she supports the Executive Vice President and Vice President of Development and Alumni Engagement with daily operations pertaining to fundraising and alumni engagement initiatives. Melissa earned her B.S. in Kinesiology from the Pennsylvania State University and her Masters of Ed. from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

Outside of work, she loves spending time in the great outdoors with her husband, Jeff, son, Cooper, and their pup Maya.

Sharon Hamil

Senior Administrative Secretary

Sharon Hamil

Senior Administrative Secretary

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Phone: 386-822-7451
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Sharon serves as the administrative secretary for the Office of Development and the major gift officers. In this capacity she utilizes the university database to retrieve lists and prepare materials for use by the Vice President prior to donor visits. She also prepares trip itineraries and makes airline and hotel reservations for the development team. Sharon is responsible for transcribing reports and letters and for drafting correspondence and acknowledgement letters and data entry of information into the Banner record. Sharon maintains gift officers budget records and monthly budget reports, as well as preparing expense reports for the major gift officers.

Prior to joining Stetson’s staff in 2004, Sharon worked 11 years for a local CPA. She lives in DeBary and has three children, five grandchildren and four step-grandchildren.

Alumni Engagement

Amy Dedes

Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

Amy Dedes '04

Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

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Phone: 386-822-4234
Email: [email protected]

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Alumni Board, Homecoming, Career Networking

Bio

Amy joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the fall of 2008 and has held many titles within the office including Director of Alumni Engagement. As Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving, Amy now helps to guide the leadership of both departments to help them achieve their engagement and fundraising goals. Amy has previously worked on the planning of alumni events across the country, including district get-togethers for alumni and current parents, recruitment events for prospective students, and on-campus events like Leadership Stetson and Homecoming. Her work on Homecoming 2012 earned a CASE Award for Special Merit in Alumni Programs.

Amy earned her BA in Elementary Education from Stetson in 2004. She went on to earn her MS from Nova Southeastern University before returning to Stetson as a staff member. Amy has a love for Stetson that shows in her work with students and alumni. She was awarded the 2014 Spirit of Stetson Award at the annual employee recognition banquet. Outside of work, she volunteers with her sorority, Alpha Chi Omega, and spends time with her husband, John, also a Stetson graduate and their young children, Adonis and Ava.

Alex Herron

Director of Alumni Engagement

Alex Herron '16

Director of Alumni Engagement

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Phone: 386-822-7482
Email: [email protected]

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Hatter Alumni Recruitment Team, Athletics, engagement opportunities and Leadership Stetson in the Tampa/St. Pete area!

Bio

Alex joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the fall of 2019 as Assistant Director, transitioning over from the Stetson Athletic Department. He was promoted to Associate Director in July of 2021 and then to Director in July of 2023.

With the Office of Alumni Engagement, Alex develops, leads and manages all engagement and programming efforts for alumni and current parents. He also works with campus partners to deepen these engagement efforts and assist in growing philanthropic and giving initiatives. Alex serves as an official travel representative at off-campus events and provides support for all alumni activities and programs including Alumni Board meetings, Homecoming and Chapter events.

Alex earned his B.BA in Sport Business from Stetson in 2016 and worked in the Athletic Department as a volunteer and intern throughout his time as a student. He was also a member of the Stetson Sport Business Association. Alex left the DeLand area after graduating for positions with the Washington Nationals and then the Miami Dolphins, before returning to Stetson in early 2018. Alex has a passion for Stetson and enjoys working and interacting with all members of the Stetson Community.

Nikki Natriello

Associate Director of Alumni and Community Engagement

Nikki Natriello

Associate Director of Alumni and Community Engagement

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Phone: 386-822-7329
Email: [email protected]

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How we can feature your achievements and professional or personal updates!

Bio

Nikki joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the Spring of 2022, where she assists the team in facilitating programming and relaying engaging content to Stetson Alumni and current parents. She also helps to grow and expand giving campaigns alongside the team. Nikki provides support for various alumni activities such as Homecoming, Leadership Stetson and Alumni Board meetings. She collaborates with other campus and community partners to connect with alumni and spread awareness of alumni benefits and opportunities.

Nikki earned her BS in Public Administration with a minor in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Central Florida in 2021. Nikki’s background consists of community-oriented roles through which she has cultivated a passion for serving her community. She spends her free time volunteering with local organizations and traveling.

Brittney Cunningham

Assistant Director of Young Alumni and Student Engagement

Brittney Cunningham

Assistant Director of Young Alumni and Student Engagement

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Phone: 386-822-7487
Email: [email protected]

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Student Philanthropy, Senior Class Gift, Student Support Foundation, Forever Green

Bio

Brittney joined Stetson in the spring of 2022 as the Student Philanthropy Coordinator. Promoted to assistant director in the summer of 2023. Brittney oversees the student organization, Green, White and YOU, which serves as the student alumni association, the Senior Class Gift Campaign, Student Support Foundation Club, and the Forever Green Young Alumni Program. Her work with Green, White and YOU earned a 2023 CASE Circle of Excellence Award for Student Engagement.

Brittney earned her BA in Early Childhood Education and BA in Marketing from the University of North Florida. During her time there, she was a member of the Honors in Marketing program and Order of Omega Honors Society. Outside of work, she volunteers with her sorority, Alpha Delta Pi, is a member of the University of North Florida Alumni Board of Directors and enjoys spending time with her friends and family.

Nicole Bunt

Administrative Assistant

Nicole Bunt ‘20

Administrative Assistant

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Phone: 386-822-7483
Email: [email protected]

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Alumni ID Cards, Alumni profile updates, Upcoming events.

Bio

Nicole joined the Office of Alumni Engagement in the Summer of 2023 as Administrative Assistant where she helps with answering questions alumni may have on different events and benefits that come with being a Stetson Alumni. She is eager to share her passion for Stetson through interactions with other Alumni and the Stetson community.

Nicole earned her Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Marketing and a minor in Professional Sales at Stetson University in 2020. While at Stetson Nicole was highly involved across campus, including being a member of our close organization – Green, White and YOU, where she worked alongside events to enhance current student and alumni engagement and philanthropy efforts across campus. Nicole was also involved with Alpha Kappa Psi and the American Marketing Association. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and reading.

Major Gift Officers

Tara Hamilton

AVP University Development Initiatives

Tara Hamilton

AVP University Development Initiatives

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Phone: 386-822-7993
Email: [email protected]

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The College of Arts and Sciences, Brown Hall, Chaudoin Remodel or any philanthropic support for Stetson.

Bio

Tara focuses on developing relationships with Stetson alumni and friends that lead to philanthropic support for the university. As a member of the leadership team, Tara also oversees a team of fundraising professionals ensuring they are successful in each of their roles. Prior to joining Stetson, Tara spent 10 years at the University of Central Florida (UCF) Foundation. She began her advancement career working in alumni relations and then moved into development where she held positions with the College of Arts and Humanities, central development and the College of Business Administration. Before transitioning into higher education, Tara worked as an event planner and volunteer coordinator with the Brevard Cultural Alliance in Melbourne.

Tara graduated with honors from UCF with a bachelor's degree in advertising and public relations and completed her MBA at UCF in 2009. Tara is a native Floridian and lives near downtown Orlando with her husband.

Rina Arroyo

Chief of Staff & Senior Development Officer

Rina Arroyo

Chief of Staff & Senior Development Officer

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Phone: 386-822-7773
Email: [email protected]

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Why I love Stetson – I'd love to hear why you do as well!

Bio

Rina serves as the Chief of Staff in the President’s Office, and Senior Development Officer. In this hybrid position, Rina assists the President in accomplishing the top priorities of the University, while building authentic relationships with alumni and parents to understand where their talents, passions and resources might connect within the university to have the greatest impact on the current student experience.

Previously, Rina served as Stetson’s associate vice president for development as well as dean of students and vice president for campus life. This makes her a tremendous resource for parents and alumni alike. Rina joined the Stetson team in 2005 after nearly a decade at Rollins College and other small private liberal arts institutions throughout the country. Throughout her 30 plus years in higher education, she has been involved in numerous professional associations and has presented at several national conferences. In 2013, Rina was presented with the NASPA Region III Bob E. Leach Award for Outstanding Service to Students.

Rina holds a bachelor's degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a master's degree in Higher Education Administration from Western Illinois University.

Angela Smucker

Director of Development

Angela Young Smucker

Director of Development

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Phone: 386-822-7585
Email: [email protected]

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Scholarships, program support, School of Music advisory board, or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.

Bio

Over the course of 20+ years, Dr. Angela Young Smucker has built a multi-faceted career in nonprofit arts administration, performance, and education. She served as founding Executive Director for Third Coast Baroque—“Chicago's most accomplished period instrumentalists and singers" (Chicago Tribune).

As an accomplished mezzo-soprano, Angela has performed with world-class ensembles, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Third Coast Baroque, Haymarket Opera Company, Bach Collegium San Diego, Santa Fe Desert Chorale, Conspirare, Seraphic Fire, and more. She has been an adjunct faculty member at Valparaiso and Stetson Universities and will return to teaching “Career Skills for the Entrepreneurial Musician” at Stetson this year. Angela holds multiple degrees: a Bachelor of Music Education from Valparaiso University, Master of Music from University of Minnesota, and a Doctor of Musical Arts from Northwestern University.

Alicia Scott

Director of Development

Alicia Scott

Director of Development

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Phone: 386-822-8874
Email: [email protected]

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The School of Business Administration and any philanthropic support for Stetson. I am your point of contact if you are located in Central Florida, West Florida, or North Carolina.

Bio

Alicia L. Scott is the Director of Development at Stetson University. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Business Administration from National University. She earned an MA in Teaching from Rollins College and a BA in Broadcast Journalism from Bethune Cookman University. Scottis also an adjunct professor in the School of Business, teaching Professional Communications.

She previously served as Chief of Protocol for the Bethune Cookman University President, Executive Director of the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center, and the former Director of Communications at Stetson University. Scott was the Editor and Writer for Stetson Today and a contributing writer for Stetson Magazine. She served on Central Florida boards such as the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts Circle of Friends Board and the Vince Carter Embassy of Hope Board. Currently, she serves on the Executive Board of the Ormond Memorial Arts Museum and the Let’s Kick Asthma Board of Central Florida.

Kerri Carlyon

Director of Development

Kerri Carlyon

Director of Development

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-8741
Email: [email protected]

Ask me about!

Scholarships, program support, capital projects, College of Arts and Sciences advisory board or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.

Bio

Kerri joined Stetson University in late 2022. She focuses on building relationships with alumni, parents, and friends in Northeast Florida and developing philanthropic support for the students, programs, and strategic priorities at the University. Kerri takes great care to align a donor’s philanthropic goals with the right initiative to achieve the most impact and have a fulfilling giving experience for the donor.

Prior to joining the Stetson team, Kerri spent over 11 years at her alma mater, Flagler College. Her experience includes roles in major gift fundraising, alumni relations, donor relations, and overseeing annual giving and family engagement. Before working in higher education, Kerri spent six years as an advertising account executive.

A native of Indiana, Kerri has called St. Augustine her home since 2002. A graduate of Flagler College, she earned degrees in business administration and communication.

Heather McCormick

Associate Athletic Director for External Operations

Heather McCormick

Associate Athletic Director for External Operations

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Phone: 386-822-6707
Email: [email protected]

Office of Annual Giving

Kristina Pisano

Director of Annual Giving

Kristina Pisano

Director of Annual Giving

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Email: [email protected]

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Annual Giving, The Stetson Fund, Ways to #TipYourHat4Stetson

Bio

Kristina joined the Annual Giving team in the spring of 2023 as the Director of Annual Giving. She comes to Stetson with almost ten years of nonprofit work, but most recently from Converse University where she found her passion for working in Higher Education. At Stetson, she helps lead the team in annual giving efforts and the Stetson University Giving Challenge.

She received her Bachelor of Science degree from UNC Greensboro in Parks and Rec Management and a Master’s in Professional Leadership and Management from Converse University. A native of Pennsylvania but calling North Carolina home, Kristina currently lives in Spartanburg, SC, and visits campus regularly. She and her husband, Andrew, have a son and a sweet dog named Minnie.

Alyssa Hull

Associate Director of Annual Giving

Alyssa Hull

Associate Director of Annual Giving

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Phone: 386-822-7456
Email: [email protected]

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Annual Giving, Making a Gift, the Stetson Fund

Bio

Alyssa began her role as the Associate Director of Annual Giving in June of 2022. Excited to be working at her alma mater, Alyssa develops fundraising efforts to engage alumni, parents, and the rest of the Stetson community. In addition to ongoing cultivation and solicitation, she is actively involved in the creation and implementation of Stetson’s Giving Challenge.

After graduating from Stetson in December 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and International Studies, Alyssa has spent the last 5 years working in the nonprofit sector. From Orlando to Washington, DC, the nonprofits she has worked with have continued to inspire her participation in the areas that mean the most to her. Having received several generous scholarships and financial aid from Stetson, Alyssa is excited to be in a role that allows her to give back to the same funds she has benefited from. Alyssa lives in New Smyrna Beach and can usually be found in her favorite place – a hammock!

James Rhodes

Assistant Director of Annual Giving

James Rhodes

Assistant Director of Annual Giving

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Email: [email protected]

Development Operations

Lisa Marchi

Executive Director of Development Operations

Lisa Marchi

Executive Director of Development Operations

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Phone: 386-822-7464
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Lisa Marchi is a graduate of Curry College in Massachusetts. Holding a degree in Business Management and a minor in Education, Lisa has worked with the Darlington School in Rome, GA and Berkshire School in Sheffield, MA as Dormitory House Head while raising her three daughters and co-parenting three stepsons.

Joining the nonprofit Landmark Volunteers as Admissions & Diversity Outreach Coordinator, Lisa was instrumental in annually placing 800 high school students in various community service projects through the US. After eight years with Landmark, Lisa began her fund development career with Berkshire South Regional Community Center as the Development Associate for Grants, Research and Records. She moved into the position of Director of Development & Communications in 2012 leading the fundraising initiative for the Center.

More recently, Lisa worked with Converse University in the role of Director of Advancement Services before coming to Stetson University as the Executive Director of Development Operations.

Don Burrhus

Director of Development Operations/Data Analyst

Don Burrhus

Director of Development Operations/Data Analyst

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Phone: 386-822-4220
Email: [email protected]

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The great rodeo of ones and zeros.

Bio

Don joined Stetson’s Information Technology team in 2007. In 2019, Don transitioned into the Development and Alumni Engagement arm of the institution where he served in Donor Relations before moving into his current role in Development Operations as a Data Analyst. Prior to Stetson, Don served in Information Technology leadership roles at Mount Ida College and Dean College, both located in the Boston, Massachusetts area.

Christine Martin

Associate Director for Development Operations

Christine Martin

Associate Director for Development Operations

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Phone: 386-822-7229
Email: [email protected]

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Gift receipting and updating your contact information

Bio

Christine has worked at Stetson since 2012, first in Annual Giving and currently in Development Operations. As an experienced professional in the field of development operations within higher education, the Associate Director of Development Operations is responsible for overseeing the efficient and effective administration of development operations. This includes managing systems and processes related to donor stewardship and engagement, gift processing, reporting and analysis, and database management.

Claudine Verdone

Assistant Director for Development Operations

Claudine Verdone

Assistant Director for Development Operations

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Phone: 386-822-7465
Email: [email protected]

Cheryl Stadtler

Director of Research and Prospect Strategy

Cheryl Stadtler

Director of Research and Prospect Strategy

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Phone: 386-822-8863
Email: [email protected]

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Philanthropy and I can help you find the best gift officer for you.

Bio

Cheryl has worked for Stetson since 2011 and served as the Administrative Assistant to the Vice President before moving into her current position of Prospect Researcher. Cheryl works closely with the Vice President’s office and with development officers to identify and gather information on potential donors.

Office of Gift Planning

Arzie Stephens

Senior Director of Gift Planning

Arzie Stephens

Senior Director of Gift Planning

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Phone: 386-822-7459
Email: [email protected]

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How to make a gift to Stetson in your estate plan.

Bio

As Senior Director of Gift Planning, Arzie's responsibilities include the university's charitable estate planning outreach, ongoing stewardship of all Stetson Society members, and the in-house administration of estate gifts. He is also involved with the university’s volunteer boards and welcomes the opportunity to speak on the benefits of planned giving.

Arzie obtained his law degree from Florida A&M University. A certified specialist in planned giving (CSPG), Arzie is also a Marine Corps veteran.

Donor Relations

Brian Piazza

Director of Donor Relations

Brian Piazza

Director of Donor Relations

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Phone: 386-822-4259
Email: [email protected]

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The Impact of Donor-Funded Scholarships, opportunities to meet with Stetson students, becoming a Member of the 1883 Society

Tamara Dolan

Associate Director of Donor Relations/Planned Giving

Tamara Dolan

Associate Director of Donor Relations/Planned Giving

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Phone: 386-822-7461
Email: [email protected]

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Memorial gift opportunities, becoming part of Stetson Society.

Bio

Joined the Hatter Universe when she relocated to Florida in 2017. Enjoys being able to acknowledge donors for their generous support of Stetson and our students.

College of Law

Brandon Prescott

Executive Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Brandon Prescott

Executive Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 727-562-7318
Email: [email protected]

Bio

With years of experience at higher education institutions and nonprofits, Brandon Prescott has shown exceptional fundraising prowess throughout his career. He has a proven track record of securing six- and- seven-figure gifts through effectively cultivating partnerships with corporate and community foundations as well as state and local governments. He has worked in critical development roles at University of South Florida College of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Sustainable Harvest International, Mount Saint Mary’s University, Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, Council for Children’s Rights, and The University of Southern Mississippi Foundation.

He has also performed volunteer work at numerous nonprofit organizations. Ensuring efficiency and effective engagement with current and future alumni alike, Brandon has a strong command for all relevant CRM and engagement platforms in the digital space.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Louisiana Tech University and an Institute for Leaders in Development Certification from University of Denver.

Patricia Toups

Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Patricia Toups

Director of Development and Alumni Engagement

Contact me!

Phone: 727-562-7985
Email: [email protected]

Bio

A long-time resident of St. Petersburg, Patricia Toups earned her undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Stetson University. Toups has worked in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations since 2001 in various roles. As associate director of development, Patricia brings a broad breadth and knowledge to the development team that includes historical timelines, practices and procedures, fiscal management and most importantly, a loyalty and devotion to Stetson Law, the alumni and students.

Patricia previously worked in the Office of Admissions at Stetson Law from 1980 to 1984. In 2004, she was staff_named Employee of the Year. She received the Dean's Award for service to the law school in 2007 and 2012. She has two sons, a daughter and granddaughter. One of her sons is a graduate of Stetson University College of Law.

Karen Ryals

Development Officer

Karen Ryals

Development Officer

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Phone: 727-562-7846
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Karen Ryals, a native Tampan, has spent the past 30 years working in nonprofit leadership and fundraising. She is the former Chief Development Officer for the Humane Society, Tampa Bay. She has specialized over the years in annual giving and donor development. Karen also has experience in planned giving and capital campaigns. She will oversee new cutting-edge annual
giving programs and managing existing campaigns including the Law Firm Challenge, Student Emergency Fund, and Book Awards.

Ryals has worked at numerous nonprofits in the Tampa Bay area and has been very active in the community as a volunteer. She received her B.A. in Education from the University of Florida and her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Florida State University.

Patricia Osborn

Administrative Specialist

Patricia Osborn

Administrative Specialist

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Phone: 727-562-7376
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Patricia Stone is native to the Tampa Bay area and is the Database Administration Specialist for the Office of Development and Alumni Relations. She joined the College of Law in January 2016 and worked in the Registrar’s Office and the Dean’s Office before transitioning to this team. In her current role, she supports the work of the Development Operations functions (gift accounting and processes, database management and reporting tools, and donor stewardship) and provides administrative support to the entire staff of the Development and Alumni Relations Office.

Stone earned her B.A.S. in Paralegal Studies from St. Petersburg College in December 2015 and is currently a law student in the College of Law’s part-time program. While law school keeps her very busy, she enjoys spending her free time reading, ballroom dancing, and being with her family.

Tomeka Jackson

Administrative Support

Tomeka Jackson

Administrative Support

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Phone: 727-562-7976
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Tomeka Jackson provides administrative support for the entire department, and in particular, works closely in helping to prepare for the College of Law's multitude of events. A graduate of Florida Metropolitan University (BS - Criminal Justice) and a graduate of Nova Southeastern University (MSCJ - Criminal Justice), Jackson most recently worked at Raymond James Financial in St. Petersburg.

In her free time, Jackson enjoys shopping, traveling and visiting with family and friends

University Events & Conference Services

Julie Hunter

Executive Director of University Events & Conference Services

Julie Hunter

Executive Director of University Events & Conference Services

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Phone: 386-822-7712
Email: [email protected]

Bio

As Executive Director of University Events, Julie is responsible for the direction, production and management of events and day-to-day operations of the events team. In working with the offices of the President, Board of Trustees, Enrollment, Development, Athletics and Marketing, she is charged with bringing strategic guidance and advancement of the university mission. Julie's marketing and event production background allows for distinct branding and creative direction for the university's events, programs and productions, taking events to the next level.

Prior to joining Stetson, Julie produced events working at Warner Bros. Studios, Easter Seals of Central Florida and the American Heart Association. She has broad experience in event planning and production, ranging from small, high-end gatherings to large-scale productions and non-profit fundraisers. She enjoys pushing the envelope, transforming spaces with out-of-the-box ideas, and tackling challenges. Away from the office, Julie enjoys spending time with her family, the beach and photography. “Life is not about weathering the storm, it's about learning to dance in the rain.”

Megan Lohsen

Director of University Events

Megan Lohsen

Director of University Events

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Phone: 386-822-7453
Email: [email protected]

Bio

Megan earned her bachelor's degree in Event Management from the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management. After graduating, she worked with some of the top wedding vendors and venues in Orlando and held positions in planning and coordination, as well as venue management and sales. Megan appreciates a good challenge and loves the opportunity to experience new things.

As a proud Delandite, Megan was born, raised and currently lives in Deland. In her free time, she enjoys adventuring with her husband, spending quality time with her friends and family and going for walks her two Siberian huskies.

Taylor Church

Associate Director of Conference Services

Taylor Church

Associate Director of Conference Services

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Phone: 386-740-6619

Email: [email protected]

Bio

As Associate Director of Conference Services, Taylor oversees the execution of summer camps, conferences, and external events around campus. Taylor earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Masters in Business Administration from the University of South Florida. Prior to joining Stetson, he worked at several Universities including University of South Florida St. Peterburg, Appalachian State University and University of Washington managing the events and operations of Student Centers.

Returning to his hometown of DeLand, Taylor is excited about growing Stetson Events and continuing to build relationships with the community. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and dog, traveling, and supporting his favorite sports teams.

Micala Cunningham

Event Manager

Micala Cunningham

Event Manager

Contact me!

Phone: 386-822-7918

Email: [email protected]

Bio

Micala recently joined the Office of University Events and Conference Service in the beginning of May 2023 as the Event Manager, with the goal of providing support to all university events and managing the campus events calendar efficiently. She comes from the Events and Non-profit space, previously working as an event manager with the National Kidney Foundation of Florida. Her work with the university currently includes handling event support requests, coordinating the campus events calendar and helping create positive experiences for student, faculty and staff.

Micala earned her B.S. in Event Management from the University of Central Florida in 2022. During her time there, she worked at the downtown UCF campus, providing fun experiences for her peers and volunteering in the Parramore community. Growing up in the central Florida area, she continues to explore and support all that the local communities have to offer.