David Bennett To Join Carnegie Mellon University as Vice President for University Advancement

Carnegie Mellon University has announced the appointment of David Bennett as the new vice president for University Advancement(opens in new window), effective Feb. 17, 2025. 

Bennett joins CMU from Howard University, where he currently serves as the senior vice president for development and alumni relations, leading transformative fundraising initiatives that have redefined the university’s advancement capabilities. 

During his tenure, he developed a contemporary, integrated fundraising program that engages each of Howard’s colleges, including Athletics and other centers of excellence. As a result of his strategic vision and commitment to collaboration, during his tenure he helped to secure 49 of the 50 largest gifts in Howard’s 158-year history and more than doubled the number of annual gifts to the institution.

In addition to his achievements at Howard, Bennett brings a wealth of experience in philanthropic leadership. He previously served as chief development officer at the National Geographic Society, where he oversaw global fundraising efforts for one of the world’s most prominent nonprofit organizations. He also held significant advancement positions at United Cerebral Palsy of America and the consulting firm Odell, Simms & Associates, Inc. Known for his collaborative and strategic approach, Bennett has consistently driven successful campaigns, exceeded fundraising targets and strengthened engagement across diverse constituencies.

“David Bennett's leadership and proven track record in advancing comprehensive fundraising and strategic engagement strategies will be invaluable as we build on our achievements and elevate our aspirations for the future,” said CMU President Farnam Jahanian(opens in new window). “His expertise and vision will strengthen the collaborative spirit that already defines Carnegie Mellon, fostering deeper partnerships among academic and administrative leaders as we continue our upward trajectory and expand our impact.”

Bennett will oversee CMU’s Division of University Advancement, which includes development, alumni and constituent engagement, business engagement, foundation relations, gift planning, donor relations, and stewardship. 

Bennett’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as CMU continues to build on the momentum of Make Possible: The Campaign for Carnegie Mellon University(opens in new window), which was launched in October 2019. In April 2023, the university announced that it had reached its $2 billion goal 18 months ahead of schedule and would extend the campaign into 2025. To date, more than 68,000 unique donors have contributed nearly $2.4 billion in new philanthropic commitments to CMU’s research and education mission, benefiting every part of the university. Bennett will now continue this legacy of excellence, leveraging this strong foundation to drive future advancement and alumni engagement efforts.

“I am honored and excited to join Carnegie Mellon University as vice president for University Advancement,” Bennett said. “CMU’s reputation for innovation, research and global impact is unparalleled, and I am inspired by the dedication of its community to drive meaningful change in the world. I look forward to partnering with the talented faculty, staff, alumni and supporters to build on the university’s impressive achievements and contribute to its continued success.”

The national search for the new vice president for University Advancement was led by Aspen Leadership Group, with support from an advisory committee composed of university leaders and a trustee advisory group who also provided input. 

Richard Scheines(opens in new window), the Bess Family Dean of the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences and member of the search advisory committee, said, “David stood out for his deep expertise, visionary thinking and collaborative spirit. I am confident that he will bring dynamic leadership to CMU and help foster the strong partnerships that are essential for our continued growth and success.”

In his email to campus announcing the appointment, Jahanian recognized the exceptional leadership of Pam Eager (ENG 1987, TPR 1995), who has been serving as interim vice president during the transition period and has been a leader at CMU for over 30 years. “Pam’s steadfast dedication and leadership has ensured that Advancement’s efforts remained seamless and impactful. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Pam and the entire Advancement team for their hard work and unwavering commitment to CMU,” Jahanian added.

David Bennett succeeds Scott Mory, who served as CMU’s vice president for University Advancement from 2015-2024, overseeing the launch of the Make Possible campaign and working closely to build effective partnerships between University Advancement and CMU’s academic leadership in order to make the campaign the most successful in CMU history.