Ohio Dominican University (ODU) President Connie Gallaher has appointed Margaret Pomfret to serve as Executive Vice President. A higher education leader with more than 24 years of industry experience, Pomfret will help to lead the university鈥檚 day-to-day operations and work with its executive leadership team to fulfill its strategic objectives. Her role will allow President Gallaher to further build and develop relationships with alumni, new and existing supporters of the university, and community and corporate partners. Pomfret鈥檚 first day at Ohio Dominican will be on Monday, Feb. 14.
Pomfret most recently served as Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio. A proven fundraising leader, she was vital in helping Ashland University secure millions of dollars in gifts that helped to reach and surpass multimillion-dollar capital and other fundraising campaign goals, as well as double the size of AU鈥檚 endowment. She recently led the most successful campaign in Ashland鈥檚 history, the 鈥淐ampaign for Every Individual,鈥� which reached $75 million in gifts, surpassing the $50 million goal.
President Gallaher says Pomfret鈥檚 accomplished background in fundraising and university advancement will be instrumental as ODU works toward achieving sustainable success and transformational growth, which include objectives related to enhancing ODU鈥檚 awareness throughout and beyond the Central Ohio region, partnering with community and corporate leaders, and expanding the academic resources and professional opportunities available to students.
鈥淎s I've learned more about Ohio Dominican University, I can say with conviction this is where I am called to be,鈥� Pomfret said. 鈥淭he university鈥檚 leadership is generating positive momentum and propelling ODU toward an exciting and successful new chapter in its history, and I am eager to contribute to it in a meaningful way. I look forward to joining President Gallaher, the leadership team and the campus community as we implement a bold strategic agenda.鈥�
鈥淭he world of higher education is rapidly changing, and many colleges and universities throughout the country, Ohio Dominican included, must be ready and willing to take the necessary steps to ensure they grow, evolve and innovate to meet the needs of tomorrow,鈥� President Gallaher said. 鈥淢argaret is a transformative leader in every sense, and her vast experience, determination, and expertise will help position ODU to take full advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead. I am excited for the campus community to work alongside Margaret as we follow the example set forth by the Dominican Sisters of Peace and lead with boldness, vision, and spirit, which will help to ensure we are able to serve the Central Ohio community 鈥� and the world 鈥� for another 111 years.鈥�
Pomfret earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and Communications and a Master of Business Administration from Ashland University, where she is currently pursuing a Doctor of Leadership Studies.