Rebecca Bair joined Stony Brook as assistant dean for advancement in the University’s College of Arts and Sciences.
At Stony Brook, Bair provides direction and oversight to the College’s advancement office while building on relationships with alumni and friends to aid in the successful completion of their philanthropic goals.
“Since Rebecca joined the Stony Brook community, her drive and leadership have continued to foster the kind of momentum that is sure to propel this University into the future and far beyond,” said Dexter A. Bailey Jr, senior vice president of University Advancement. “We couldn’t be happier to have her on board and expect her continued contributions will make a real impact on the students and faculty within the College of Arts and Sciences.”
Bair comes to Stony Brook with 22 years of advancement experience. Her previous roles have included director of university advancement at Mansfield University of Pennsylvania, acting executive director at Mansfield University Foundation, and director of development for Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law.
“Rebecca personifies the strategic vision of the College, marrying our needs for building excellence with the passions of our alumni and community,” said Dr. Sacha Kopp, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “Especially gratifying for me in terms of Rebecca joining our team is her commitment to developing relationships and strengthening our College community that’s inclusive of not only faculty and students, but alumni and surrounding members.”
Bair said she was excited to raise funds for the College of Arts and Sciences for its breadth in subject matter, describing donor opportunities that range from neurobiology to economics to music. “There’s a lot of important research going on and a lot of stellar programs — all of which give prospective donors the chance to support something they are passionate about,” she said. “Stony Brook has so much to offer, especially for first-generation students.”
Bair is in the process of building a team of development officers while she continues to build relationships with alumni. “I have found that alumni really value the education they received at Stony Brook. Many were first-generation students who were given a great start here at an affordable price. They want to give back to their alma mater, both to help it achieve its goals and to help it gain greater recognition.”
Bair arrived at Stony Brook just prior to the public launch of The Campaign for Stony Brook, the University’s historic $600 million campaign — the largest fundraising effort in SUNY history. To date, more than $473 million has been raised by 38,600 donors. Bair noted that $66 million will be designated for the College of Arts and Sciences.
Bair holds doctoral degrees in business administration and macroeconomics.
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