MIAMI [Sept. 19, 2019] — Barry University has announced that Bernadine Douglas has been appointed Vice President for Institutional Advancement. She will begin her new role effective Nov. 1.
As Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Douglas will: lead the development of a strategic plan for the area of Institutional Advancement; direct the focusing and matching of University priorities with philanthropic potential; devise and oversee strategies to guide and support the President, Trustees, Vice Presidents, Deans, and other key stakeholders; develop a vibrant culture of philanthropy; guide and oversee efforts related to annual giving, corporate giving, foundation giving, major and principal giving, and planned giving; provide oversight to the Alumni Relations and Annual Giving department; and build an advancement program based on a solid, analytical foundation.
“I am excited to join Barry at such an opportune time in the University’s history,” Douglas said. “I look forward to becoming a part of the Barry community and working with President Allen, faculty, and staff as we continue to develop the leaders of tomorrow, celebrate the successes of our alumni, and cultivate strong relationships within our community.”
Douglas, who grew up in Florida, currently serves as Vice President for Alumni and College Relations at Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, and brings with her a wealth of experience in higher education. She has served at Berea since 2015.
Under her leadership, Berea has enjoyed four years of consecutive fundraising growth. In fiscal year 2018, the College raised more than $45 million, which — at that time — had been the best year for giving in the College’s history. In 2019, there has been more than $54.5 million raised. This includes more than $2 million in charitable gift annuities, $4.7 million in annual giving, and more than $14 million in endowment additions.
Prior to joining Berea College, Douglas served for seven years at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Daytona Beach as Associate Vice-President and Vice-President of External Relations. While at ERAU, she played an instrumental role in the University raising more than $12 million in support of scholarships, endowed faculty and internship programs. Under her leadership, ERAU established the parents giving campaign and received its largest scholarship gift.
From 2001-2007, Douglas served as Director of Major Gifts at the University of Central Florida, where she established their grants writing department. She also served as part of a fundraising team that raised more than $100 million to establish the UCF College of Medicine.
“Bernadine impressed everyone on campus with her warm and dynamic personality, fundraising success and expertise, and enthusiasm for Barry’s mission. She will be a wonderful addition to our community,” said Barry University President Mike Allen.
Douglas earned her Master of Business Administration in 1999 from Webster University, and a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations in 1994 from the University of Florida.