Nazareth Hires New Vice President for Advancement

As Nazareth College approaches its 100th anniversary, the College welcomes Darrell Bell as vice president for advancement — a dynamic, experienced advancement leader who's ready to help power Nazareth's next 100 years. In May, Bell becomes the chief development, alumni engagement, and fundraising officer for the College, joining a strong team dedicated to leading the College's important mission to educate and elevate new leaders to advance social innovation, social justice, and social progress.

"His successes in higher education advancement speak volumes," said Nazareth President Beth Paul, Ph.D. "I am excited to partner with Darrell to further engage current and new donors to invest in Nazareth's transformational role in our community and society."

Bell shares the enthusiasm. "I am absolutely delighted to be joining the Nazareth community as President Paul works to implement her new strategic vision for the College," said Bell. "We are serving higher education during a critical moment in history and I will preserve and advance the great work of my predecessor Kelly Gagan as Nazareth looks forward. The work of the advancement team continues to be pivotal in providing an outstanding educational experience, and I am honored to lead our efforts as we continue to increase engagement and philanthropy for the long-term sustainability of Nazareth College."

Bell brings a wide array of advancement experience to Nazareth, including expertise in annual giving, frontline fundraising, diversity, capital campaigns, and management.

"Darrell joins our community at an exciting time," Paul added. "We are embracing this time of revolutionary change in our society to amplify the power of education for developing the leaders of a better future. Darrell shares Naz's core values and brings strong commitment to our vision for a more humane, just, and healthy society. I am confident he will be an energetic partner in moving the College boldly forward."

Bell has served as the vice president for institutional advancement at Roberts Wesleyan College and Northeastern Seminary since 2016. He has more than 20 years of experience in advancement roles at several well-known research universities including the University of Rochester, Carnegie Mellon University, and University of Pittsburgh. Bell earned his associate's degree in criminal justice from California University of Pennsylvania, his bachelor's degree in administration of justice at University of Pittsburgh, and his master's degree in strategic leadership at Roberts Wesleyan College.

Bell volunteers with local organizations including The Charles Finney School. He serves on the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District II cabinet. He was selected for a RBJ 40 under 40 award in 2018 and recognized as a 2020 Rochester Chamber of Commerce Ignite Award Finalist.

Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for nearly 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.

Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.

• published: 2021 March
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