The path Christopher Morrison has traveled has touched many facets of the University of Dayton experience — student, alum, parent of three graduates and employee. Known and respected across the University, he is well-positioned to lead UD's advancement and fundraising efforts when he becomes vice president for advancement Aug. 1.

"What excites me and makes me proud is having an impact on generating philanthropic support for scholarships and experiential learning opportunities for our students who are doing so many great things on campus and in the community," said Morrison, who takes over for Jennifer Howe, who has accepted a position with Georgia Tech. "This is a great opportunity for me to continue giving back to the University that has given so much and continues to give so much to me, my wife whom I met here and our children who are also UD alumni."

Morrison earned a bachelor's of science in marketing and a minor in communication from the University in 1985. After 27 years in sales and leadership positions at companies including the Geode Group, a Cincinnati-based firm he co-founded; Ernst & Young and NCR; he joined the University in 2013 as associate vice president for advancement. He added the role of campaign operations director in 2017.

"A UD alum and parent with great passion for UD, Chris has an innate understanding of our identity and mission, and deep knowledge of advancement operations and staff," UD President Eric F. Spina said. "I am excited about his leadership and know that the commitment of the entire advancement division will be key to making the transition and having a successful campaign." 

As director of campaign operations, Morrison has led efforts to design a campaign cabinet structure, recruit a full volunteer network, and implement processes focusing on increasing philanthropy, engagement and overall donor participation in preparation for the university’s first campaign in 20 years. Other roles in UD's advancement division have included supporting alumni, corporate and foundation relations; donor stewardship; planned giving; and athletics fundraising.

"We have a dedicated team that I am looking forward to working with as we advance this great University and its students into the future," Morrison said. "Together, we will engage our community, sharing the good news of the University, enhancing its reputation, and inspire philanthropic support for opportunities that help create well rounded UD graduates."

Visit https://udayton.edu/advancement/index.php to learn about the University of Dayton's advancement division.

For interviews, contact Shawn Robinson, associate director of news and communications, at srobinson1@udayton.edu.