Tom Jennings to Step Down as Vice President for University Advancement

By News Office
June 7, 2024

Tom Jennings, vice president for university advancement at Washington and Lee University, has announced his resignation effective June 30, 2024.

“We are deeply grateful to Tom for his contributions to Washington and Lee during the past four years,” said President Will Dudley. “He returned to W&L at the start of the pandemic and navigated challenging circumstances for university advancement with skill, grace and good humor. Under his leadership, the University had its second most successful fundraising year in its history and has completed fundraising for several strategic priorities, including the Harte Center for Teaching and Learning, the Office of Inclusion and Engagement, the new Williams School facility, and the Lindley Center for Student Health and Wellness. He leaves us well-positioned for the public launch of our campaign this fall.”

As vice president, Jennings oversaw the initial phase of Washington and Lee’s forthcoming Leading Lives of Consequence campaign, which includes support for student scholarships, academic programs and co-curricular experiences, and a variety of capital projects to improve facilities across campus.

In addition to fundraising, Jennings was responsible for all aspects of the university’s advancement program, including law advancement, advancement operations, special events, and alumni engagement, while also bringing career and professional development under the advancement umbrella in 2022.

He began his advancement career at Washington and Lee in 1992, holding a variety of development roles at W&L and the University of Virginia, before moving to Florida State University in Tallahassee, where he served as vice president for university advancement and president of the FSU Foundation.

He holds both a B.S. and M.A. in psychology from James Madison University, and a Ph.D. in higher education from the University of Virginia.

“It has been a privilege and pleasure to serve alongside such capable and committed colleagues and loyal volunteers and donors,” said Jennings. “I am glad to have played some small part in helping strengthen W&L for future generations.”

President Dudley will announce plans regarding Jennings’ successor in the coming days.