Office of Development and Alumni Engagement
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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421 N. Woodland Blvd., Unit 8279
DeLand, FL 32723
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How you can strongly impact Stetson University
Bio
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.
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]
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Development House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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Scholarships, program support, capital projects, corporate philanthropy or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.
Bio
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.
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]
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421 N. Woodland Blvd., Unit 8279
DeLand, FL 32723
Bio
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.
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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Development House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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Brand identity, marketing research, telling Stetson stories and increasing awareness.
Bio
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.
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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Development House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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The importance of brand and message consistency.
Bio
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.
Executive Assistant
Melissa Atwell
Executive Assistant
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Phone: 386-822-7481
Email: [email protected]
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421 N. Woodland Blvd., Unit 8279
DeLand, FL 32723
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Anything and if I don't know the answer, I'll find it for you!
Bio
Outside of work, she loves spending time in the great outdoors with her husband, Jeff, son, Cooper, and their pup Maya.
Senior Administrative Secretary
Sharon Hamil
Senior Administrative Secretary
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Phone: 386-822-7451
Email: [email protected]
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Development House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
Bio
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
Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving
Margo Thomas
Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving
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Phone: 386-822-7460
Email: [email protected]
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Meadows Alumni House, 217 E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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Getting involved as a leader at Stetson!
Bio
A native of Nebraska, Margo played four years of varsity golf at Flagler College before graduating with a B.A. in English in 2006. She finished a Master’s in Public Administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University in 2019. She is married to her husband, Zach, and they have a young daughter, Annie. They are all excited to be Hatters!
Director of Alumni Engagement
Amy Dedes
Director of Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 386-822-4234
Email: [email protected]
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Meadows Alumni House, 217 E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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Alumni Board, Leadership Stetson, Homecoming, Career Networking
Bio
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.
Associate Director of Alumni Engagement
Alex Herron
Associate Director of Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 386-822-7482
Email: [email protected]
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Based in St. Petersburg, FL.
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Hatter Alumni Recruitment Team, Athletics, and engagement opportunities in the Tampa/St. Pete area!
Bio
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.
Associate Director of Alumni Engagement
Nikki Natriello
Associate Director of Alumni Engagement
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Phone: 386-822-7329
Email: [email protected]
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Meadows Alumni House, 217 E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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How we can feature your achievements and professional or personal updates!
Bio
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.
Student Philanthropy Coordinator
Brittney Cunningham
Student Philanthropy Coordinator
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Phone: 386-822-7487
Email: [email protected]
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Green, White & YOU
421 N. Woodland Blvd., Unit 8279
DeLand, FL 32723
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Student Philanthropy, Green, White & You, Senior Class Gift, Student Support Foundation.
Bio
Brittney earned her B.A. in Early Childhood Education and B.A. 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, and enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
Major Gift Officers
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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Development House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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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.
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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421 N. Woodland Blvd., Unit 8279
DeLand, FL 32723
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Why I love Stetson – I'd love to hear why you do as well!
Bio
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.
Director of Development
Mike Vermillion
Director of Development
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Phone: 386-822-7585
Email: [email protected]
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Development House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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Scholarships, program support, capital projects, School of Music advisory board or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.
Bio
Mike serves as the development liaison for the Stetson School of Music in addition to building relationships with Stetson alumni and donors in the west central Florida region, Prior to joining Stetson, Mike served as the chief operating officer for the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Salt Lake City, Utah. His responsibilities included operational and strategic leadership for all areas including guest services, education, zoological operations, marketing, human resources, facilities and development.
Mike has spent the majority of his professional career in a variety of leadership roles at the Walt Disney World Resort, including creative entertainment, park & resort entertainment operations, new product development, finance, corporate and special events, project management and professional development and leadership training. Business units included Creative Entertainment, Park Operations, Costuming and Cosmetology, Disney Cruise Line, Consumer Direct Sales, Disney Event Group, Guest Information & Communication, and Disney Institute. Mike brings more than 25 years of entertainment and hospitality industry knowledge, leadership, innovative ideas, outstanding management skills and business relationships.
Mike holds an MBA from the Owen Graduate School of Management at Vanderbilt University in addition to Bachelor and Master of Music Education degrees from Texas Tech University. Still an avid musician, he is the founder of the Tapestry Brass Quintet and performs regularly with regional orchestras and professional ensembles in Central Florida.
Director of Development
Tiffany Edwards
Director of Development
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Phone: 386-822-8874
Email: [email protected]
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Development House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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Scholarships, program support, capital projects, School of Business Administration advisory board or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.
Bio
A Volusia County native, she has many fond memories on the Stetson campus, enjoying coffee from Boston’s Coffee House while sitting on the lawn of Elizabeth Hall.
A graduate of the Rosen Hospitality Management school at the University of Central Florida, Tiffany notes the most rewarding part of her role as a director of development here at Stetson is connecting donors’ philanthropic goals with the mission of Stetson, empowering students & faculty at Stetson to make a difference in their community both locally and globally.
Tiffany lives in Ormond Beach with her husband, two children, and two dogs. Tiffany enjoys giving back to her community through volunteering and has served on the Women United Volusia Board of Directors for the past 7 years where she advocates for women in children in Volusia County.
Director of Development
Kerri Carlyon
Director of Development
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Phone: 386-822-8741
Email: [email protected]
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Development House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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Scholarships, program support, capital projects, College of Arts and Sciences advisory board or any philanthropic gift to Stetson.
Bio
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.
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]
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421 N. Woodland Blvd., Unit 8279
DeLand, FL 32723
Office of Annual Giving
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.
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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Meadows Alumni House, 217 E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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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!
Annual Giving Coordinator
Isabel Solorzano
Annual Giving Coordinator
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Phone: 386-822-4352
Email: [email protected]
Visit me!
Meadows Alumni House, 217 E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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How to make my first gift Why a gift of any size makes an impact How to stay connected with Stetson.
Bio
Isabel joined the Development team in the summer of 2022. She graduated from Stetson in May 2022 with a bachelor's degree in Communications & Media Studies with minors in Journalism and Digital Arts. She is currently pursuing her Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and plans to graduate by summer 2024. As the Annual Giving Coordinator, she oversees the Deland campus's mass solicitation operations, including direct mail, email solicitations, and special focused giving initiatives such as student philanthropy, faculty and staff, reunions, and online giving day campaigns. Go Hatters!
Development Operations
Executive Director of Development Operations
Lisa Marchi
Executive Director of Development Operations
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Phone: 386-822-7464
Email: [email protected]
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Dev. Ops House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
Bio
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.
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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Dev. Ops House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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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.
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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Dev. Ops House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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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.
Assistant Director for Development Operations
Claudine Verdone
Assistant Director for Development Operations
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Phone: 386-822-7465
Email: [email protected]
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Dev. Ops House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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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Dev. Ops House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
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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.
Prospect Research Assistant
James Rhodes
Prospect Research Assistant
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Email: [email protected]
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Dev. Ops House
E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
Office of Gift Planning
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
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
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
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
Executive Director
Bio
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.
Director of Alumni and Annual Giving
Patricia Toups
Director of Alumni and Annual Giving
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Phone: 727-562-7985
Email: [email protected]
Bio
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.
Development Officer
Bio
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.
Database Administration Support
Patricia Stone
Database Administration Support
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Phone: 727-562-7376
Email: [email protected]
Bio
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.
Administrative Support
Tomeka Jackson
Administrative Support
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Phone: 727-562-7976
Email: [email protected]son.edu
Bio
In her free time, Jackson enjoys shopping, traveling and visiting with family and friends
University Events & Conference Services
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]
Visit me!
Donor Relations House E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
Bio
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.”
Director of University Events
Megan Lohsen
Director of University Events & Conference Services
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Phone: 386-822-7453
Email: [email protected]
Visit me!
Donor Relations House E Michigan Ave. DeLand 32724
Bio
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.