FAU Welcomes New VP for Advancement

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Christopher J. Delisio as FAU’s new vice president for Institutional Advancement and chief executive officer of the FAU Foundation. In this critical role, Chris will be responsible for the overall direction and management of community engagement, as well as all fundraising, development and alumni relations.

Chris immediately stood out as the perfect fit to lead the charge here at FAU. He brings 25 years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, strategic planning, leadership, and other key areas. His hands-on roles at The Ohio State University — where he has spent the majority of his career — will be put to good use here. Chris also gained valuable experience at the University of Dayton, the University of North Carolina Wilmington, and the North Carolina Special Olympics. He received a Bachelor of Arts from Hiram College and a Master of Business Administration from Kent State University, both in Ohio.

I would like to thank everyone who served on the search committee for this key role in the university’s success, especially Dick and Barb Schmidt for their valuable insight, and FAU’s Vice President and Director of Athletics Brian White, who chaired the search committee.

Chris’ official first day will be Sept. 12. He will be joined in the Boca Raton area by his wife, Stephani, and their daughter, Bella. I hope you will join me in extending a warm welcome to Chris and his family once they are settled.

This is an exciting time for FAU, particularly in our philanthropic efforts, and we are extremely fortunate to welcome Chris to the team. I look forward to his leadership as FAU enters a new era of fundraising success.

Go Owls!