FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 18, 2003

CONTACT: Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119

JOHN WILLEY NAMED VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT AT DRAKE

John H. Willey, vice president for development and university relations at Ohio Northern University since 1998, has been appointed vice president for institutional advancement at Drake University, Drake President David Maxwell announced today.

Willey, who will start work at Drake on Sept. 1, has extensive experience in the design and implementation of successful fundraising campaigns as well as in university-wide strategic planning and marketing. At Drake, he will be responsible for the development, alumni relations and university communications program.

"We set very high standards for our next vice president of institutional advancement and we're excited we have found someone who exceeds our expectations," President Maxwell said. "John has significant experience in all of the areas that are critical to a successful advancement operation. He has the background, expertise, and interpersonal skills to make a major contribution to the senior administrative leadership of the institution. He's a perfect match for Drake University."

At Ohio Northern, a university with an enrollment of 3,300 students in Ada, Ohio, Willey led fundraising to two record years, with gift totals at least 30 percent above the previous 10-year average. He also secured the largest capital commitment in Ohio Northern's history for a new building to house the College of Business Administration.

"I am excited about joining Drake and moving to Des Moines with my wife, Barbara." Willey said. "We look forward to playing an active role not only in the life of Drake University but the life of Des Moines and other central Iowa communities."

Willey, 55, who was raised in south Georgia, has family roots in Iowa. His father was born and raised in Pocahontas County and his grandfather resided in both Carroll and Pocahontas counties.

Prior to joining Ohio Northern University, Willey was vice president for institutional advancement at Lyon College in Batesville, Ark., and vice president for college relations at Alverno College in Milwaukee. He also has served as vice president for capital resources at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va.

Willey, who spent two years as a Peace Corps volunteer in South Korea, holds a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Georgia, a master's degree in history from Vanderbilt University and a master's degree with a focus on nonprofit management and educational policy analysis from Columbia University.