Delaware Valley University Names New Vice President for Development and Alumni Affairs

Keith Richardson, a veteran fundraiser with wide-ranging experience in higher education, has been selected as Delaware Valley University’s new vice president for development and alumni affairs. Richardson was chosen for the position following a national search and starts today, Jan. 8.

Previously the assistant vice president of leadership programs at Monmouth University, Richardson brings more than 17 years of experience in university development to the position.

“We are excited to have Keith join our team at Delaware Valley University,” said DelVal President Dr. Maria Gallo. “He has an excellent track record of raising funds and developing relationships, both individually and as a team leader. Keith’s leadership skills and successful development experience will enhance the University’s ability to implement a new strategic plan and expand opportunities for students.”  

At Monmouth, Richardson was responsible for a team of 18 professionals in the areas of major gifts, gift planning, corporate and foundation relations, government grants and contracts, advancement services and prospect research. Under his leadership, the team secured $14.6 million in gifts and pledges in 2015, which was the second-best fundraising year in the University’s history. He also created a school-based fundraising model that positioned development officers in each of the six academic units of the institution to better align donor funding interests with strategic goals. Students at Monmouth benefited from 28 new endowed scholarships totaling $2.7 million in 2015 and 2016 thanks to an initiative Richardson led. 

Before Monmouth, Richardson served as director of athletic development – major gifts at Rutgers University, where he helped establish more than 60 new annual and endowed scholarships over a three-year period. He also managed a premium seating program for athletics, which generated $2.5 million annually in gifts.  

"My family and I are very excited to join the Delaware Valley University community,” said Richardson.  “I look forward to working closely with Dr. Gallo, the trustees, alumni, faculty, staff, and students during this transformative period for DelVal.”

Richardson is a graduate of Rider University, where he earned a bachelor’s in marketing and a master’s in organizational leadership with a specialization in higher education.