Hampton University Hires First-Ever Chief Advancement Officer

Dr. Marc Newman Brings Three Decades of Expertise to Drive Philanthropic Investment, Expand Strategic Partnerships, and Strengthen Hampton's Position as a Top-Tier Research Institution 

HAMPTON, Va., Feb. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hampton University recently announced that it has hired its first-ever chief advancement office (CAO), marking a bold step forward in the university's financial and philanthropic strategy. Stepping into the role, following an extensive national search, is Dr. Marc Newman who brings an unparalleled track record in institutional advancement, fundraising, and strategic partnerships. As a key member of the President's Administrative Council, Dr. Newman will work closely with the entire executive team, providing leadership to fortify Hampton's financial infrastructure and elevate its impact on student success, academic excellence, and innovation. 

"We're thrilled to welcome Dr. Marc Newman to Hampton University," said President Darrell K. Williams. "His extensive experience, visionary leadership, and deep commitment to higher education advancement align perfectly with our strategic priorities. I am confident that his expertise will propel our fundraising efforts to new heights and reinforce our commitment to institutional growth and transformative opportunities for students and faculty alike."

A recognized leader in higher education advancement, Dr. Newman has successfully led multi-million-dollar campaigns, secured transformative federal and private funding, and driven strategic donor engagement initiatives. He most recently served as Vice President for Advancement at Albion College, where he spearheaded federal appropriations and Title III funding, and led a team that received the CASE Circle of Excellence Award-winning Giving Tuesday campaign.

Prior to that, he was Vice President of Research and Economic Development at Grambling State University, where he established the foundation for fundraising at the institution to include implementation of fundraising software, re-organized the Grambling Foundation resulting in increased alumni giving from 2% to 18%, and established 32 endowed scholarships and 45 non-endowed scholarships. He also led efforts to secure federal and state funding through grants and appropriations. Furthermore, in this role, he created The Doug Williams Center for the Study of Race and Politics in Sports.

Dr. Newman's expertise extends across grant writing, governmental relations, board development, special events planning, and fiscal management. His ability to cultivate donor relationships and secure major gifts has consistently translated into substantial financial growth for the institutions he has served.

In his new role, Dr. Newman will oversee the university's fundraising initiatives, alumni engagement, and corporate and foundation partnerships to enhance financial resources for scholarships, faculty development, and campus-wide initiatives. His leadership will play a critical role in advancing the strategic priorities outlined in the Elevating Hampton Excellence 10-year strategic plan which focuses on elevating academic excellence, increasing research and innovation, improving operations and enhancing infrastructure, increasing financial sustainability, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and sustaining academic excellence.

"The CAO position marks a strategic shift within our community, redefining the former leadership roles of Advancement to enable Hampton to take a bigger step forward in our pursuit of institutional growth, innovation and stewardship. With the selection of Marc Newman, I'm even more confident those goals are within reach," said Williams.

Dr. Newman's career includes executive roles with the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), where he led fundraising efforts across multiple markets. Additionally, he served as Vice President for Advancement for 9 plus years at Saint Augustine's University in Raleigh North Carolina and he has played a pivotal role in securing philanthropic investments for organizations such as the Better Boys Foundation, Bethel New Life, and Little Black Pearl Workshop in Chicago's nonprofit sector.

Dr. Newman holds a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration with a concentration in Developmental Education from Grambling State University. He earned his bachelor's degree from Chicago State University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. He has also completed advanced leadership programs at Harvard University's Institute for Educational Management and Vanderbilt University's Peabody College.

"I'm honored to join Hampton University at such a pivotal time in its history," said Dr. Newman. "Hampton's legacy of excellence is unmatched, and I look forward to working alongside President Williams, the administration, alumni, and community partners to build on this remarkable foundation and secure the resources necessary to empower future generations."

Dr. Newman is an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, CASE, the Chief Advancement Officer Network, and 100 Black Men of America. He's also a  member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and has served on numerous boards, including the Lincoln Parish Chamber of Commerce, Lincoln Parish CVB (as Board Chair), Albion Economic Development Corporation (as Board Chair), YMCA of the Triangle, and HBCUgrow.

ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY 

Hampton University is a Carnegie R2-designated research institution, recognized for its groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. Contributing $530 million annually to the regional and Commonwealth of Virginia economies, Hampton plays a vital role in driving economic development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. The university was recently named one of the "Best Colleges in America" by Money Magazine and recognized as the "Best Private College" by Coastal Virginia.

Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators, representing 44 states and 32 territories, committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.

SOURCE Hampton University