The University of Scranton Announces Appointment of Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations

             Gary R. Olsen has been named vice president for development and alumni relations at The University of Scranton, effective Monday, Feb. 4, 2013.

            For the past 20 years, Olsen has served as associate vice president for alumni relations and executive director of the alumni association at Villanova University, Villanova.

            “A nationally recognized professional with more than 35 years of experience, Gary will bring a superior strategic vision and a deep commitment to engaging the wider campus community in development and alumni relations,” said University of Scranton President Kevin P. Quinn, S.J., in an announcement to the campus community about Olsen.

            At Villanova, Olsen played a leading role in crafting its integrated development and alumni relations program. He was also involved with the strategic and operational development of two capital campaigns, founded an award-winning Leadership Summit and established an Alumni Association Board of Directors, among other accomplishments. Dedicated to service and social justice, he founded a chapter of the Villanova Alumni Association the State Correctional Institution at Graterford, Pa., for men who have earned degrees from Villanova University during their incarceration.

            Olsen serves as a member of the Council for the Support and Advancement of Education (CASE) Board of Trustees and chairs the CASE Commission on Alumni Relations. He has presented at national and international educational programs and conferences, and frequently contributes to CASE Currents, the organization’s magazine.

            Before joining Villanova in 1993, Olsen served at several Philadelphia area institutions, including as executive director of the National Adoption Network, executive director of the Alcoholism & Addictions Council, and administrative director of the Lincoln Center for Family and Youth.

            Olsen earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Villanova University.