Dear fellow members of the Columbia community:
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Frederick M. Van Sickle as Executive Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations. Formerly Columbia’s Vice President for University Development, Fred replaces Susan K. Feagin, who will continue to serve the University in the new role of Special Advisor to the President. Susan’s success in expanding support for the University over the past nine years is evident in virtually every measure available to gauge such progress, whether by elevating Columbia to the top ranks of universities in annual fundraising, meeting the lofty goals of the Columbia Campaign one year ahead of schedule in a turbulent global economy, or vastly increasing funds available for student financial aid and faculty chairs. We are grateful for all Susan has accomplished on the University’s behalf.
Fred arrived at Columbia in 2002 and has been Susan’s partner in creating the strong alumni and development organization in place today. He is uniquely well-positioned to build on Columbia’s recent progress. Last month, in recognition of this momentum, the Trustees extended The Columbia Campaign until December 2013, and raised the campaign’s overall goal to $5 Billion. The funds will be used to sustain Columbia’s mission of teaching, research, patient care, and public service by making available additional resources for financial aid, faculty support, and new facilities. Under Fred’s stewardship, I am confident we will continue building the sense of loyalty and enthusiasm now seen throughout the extended Columbia community, and so important to all of our plans for the future.
Sincerely,
Lee C. Bollinger