Institutional Advancement

The mission of the Office of Institutional Advancement is to promote the overall growth of the University and enhance the institution’s standing in the broader community. To accomplish this, Institutional Advancement maintains divisions devoted to development, alumni relations, private/public grants, foundation/corporate relations, and communications.

The Office of Advancement secures funding from foundations, government sources, and private donors, raising nearly $40 million to support University operations, programs, projects, and student scholarships in the last five years.

The Alumni Relations program promotes alumni giving, programming, volunteering and engagement with current students and alumni.

Sandra Ward
Assistant Vice President for Advancement
  • Phone860-727-6974
  • Email
Kristin Brisbon
Director of Grants
  • Phone860-913-6792
  • Email
Sarah Bourdon
Senior Grants Officer
  • Phone860-727-6947
  • Email
Heidi Carlson
Senior Foundation and Grants Officer
  • Phone860-727-6747
  • Email
Michelle Strawder
Senior Grants Officer
  • Phone860-727-6967
  • Email
Amy Rodriguez
Grants Associate
  • Phone860-727-6950
  • Email