IPFW Names Chief Fundraiser
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowIndiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne has named Wendy Kobler vice chancellor for advancement. She most recently served in a similar role at Alabama A&M University.
January 3, 2014
News Release
Fort Wayne, Ind.—Wendy Kobler has been appointed vice chancellor for advancement at Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW). In this role, Kobler will serve as the chief fundraising officer while overseeing primary development, marketing, and alumni relations for the campus.
Kobler has served Alabama A&M University in Huntsville for nearly four years as the vice president of marketing, communication, and advancement, working as a member of the President’s Executive Cabinet and a key advisor to the Board of Trustees.
“Wendy is an experienced professional whose leadership in building relationships with key constituencies will help our team move IPFW forward as we move to an integrated advancement model,” said Chancellor Vicky Carwein. “Wendy will advance our mission by enhancing our relationships in proactive ways that build a consistent vision of our university brand and leading a plan to significantly increase private, corporate, and foundation giving to IPFW.”
Kobler brings an extensive background in marketing and development, having worked in the government and commercial sectors. Kobler was the marketing and public relations manager for Fiscal Systems (Software Technology) and also the lead conference organizer for the US Army Space and Missile Defense Conference. In addition, she spearheaded her own business, Kobler Communications, managing innovative solutions and problem-solving techniques in product and organizational service marketing.
In 2010 Kobler joined Alabama A&M University. During her time as vice president of marketing, communications, and advancement she led the development of a tactical plan to create a donor base, connect to distinguished alumni, and enhance fundraising capabilities to support the university’s strategic goals.
“I look forward to serving IPFW in a role that presents the opportunity to forge meaningful partnerships with the alumni, donors, and friends of the university who play key roles in the development of campus,” said Kobler. “IPFW is clearly an institution on the move, and together, we will nurture a culture of philanthropy and engagement that allows the university to better serve its students, faculty, staff, and the community. I look forward to being a part of and building upon its tradition of excellence.”
Kobler earned a bachelor of science degree in marketing from the University of West Florida in Pensacola. She also has a master's degree in secondary education (marketing education) from Alabama A&M University and a certificate in Fund Raising Management from the Fund Raising School in Indianapolis.
Source: Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne