Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø

New director of annual giving appointed


Stephanie Roberts has been named director of annual giving at Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø. Roberts joined the university’s Advancement team in fall 2023 as a development analyst and will assume her new role starting Nov. 4.

Stephanie Roberts

As the director of annual giving, Roberts will oversee all aspects of the Âé¶¹¹Ù꿉۪s annual giving program, be responsible for the organization, planning, and management of programs to build annual support as well as the Fund for Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø, which provides unrestricted support for the university, generates more than $450,000 annually. In addition, other annual funds, including the New Life Fund for Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, contributed another $7 million last year, will be overseen by Roberts. 

“I am thrilled to accept this new role to serve Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø,â€� said Roberts. “My passion lies in seeing our students thrive and succeed and having access to an affordable education. I am excited to work with our talented, innovative advancement team to ensure that our university has a bright future and lasting impact.â€�

Prior to joining Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø, Roberts held key positions at Southern Evangelical Seminary and Davidson College – giving her extensive experience in fundraising and a deep commitment to higher education.

“We are thrilled to have Stephanie step into this important role,â€� said Cat Serrin Niekro, vice president of institutional advancement. “Her passion for Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø, coupled with her creativity and dedication to our mission, will undoubtedly elevate our annual giving program to new heights.â€�

Four members of the spirit team raise their hands on the field

Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø welcomes alumni and friends back to campus Oct. 16–17 for Homecoming 2026, featuring milestone reunions, favorite traditions, the Eastside Commons groundbreaking and Bears football.

View More
Gray Stone passes a plate to a student on the cafeteria serving line

New director of food service Gray Stone ’21 returns to Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø focused on providing a dining experience that responds to student needs and makes campus feel like home.

View More