Virginia Tech names Tom Wamsley as new Senior Vice President for advancement

Wamsley joins from the University of Illinois Chicago, bringing extensive fundraising experience to support the university’s national engagement and growth.

Photo credit: Tom Wamsley

Virginia Tech names Tom Wamsley as the university’s next senior vice president for advancement. He begins the role on August 18, succeeding Charlie Phlegar, who retires after leading the Advancement Division since its creation in 2015.

The division was established to support the university’s Boundless Impact campaign, which strengthens national alumni engagement and donor relationships. President Tim Sands describes Wamsley as a leader capable of building on that foundation.

“Tom is the right person to elevate Virginia Tech’s modern land-grant mission and the expanding impact of our innovation network,” Sands says. “We’re excited to have him join us in our mission to make a difference for the people and communities we serve.”

Extensive fundraising experience

Wamsley currently serves as vice chancellor for advancement at the University of Illinois Chicago and senior vice president at the University of Illinois Foundation. There, he leads the university’s largest-ever fundraising campaign, surpassing its $750 million target by more than $50 million and securing the biggest individual gifts in the institution’s history.

His previous roles include chief development officer at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and advancement positions at Wright State University, Antioch College, and the University of Dayton.

Julie Ross, Paul and Dorthea Torgersen Dean of Engineering and special advisor to the president, chairs the national search that selects Wamsley. “Tom’s depth of experience, record-setting achievements, and ability to cultivate strong relationships within a university community set him apart,” Ross says.

Transition follows a decade of leadership

Wamsley takes over from Charlie Phlegar, who is the inaugural leader of Virginia Tech’s Advancement Division and helps establish its current reputation as one of the country’s top advancement programs.

“It’s an honor to have the opportunity to serve Virginia Tech and Hokie Nation in growing its reputation as a national leader in public education,” Wamsley says. “The advancement program is among the best in the country thanks to the leadership of Charlie Phlegar and the amazing team he has built. I’m looking forward to partnering with President Sands, academic leadership, and the most passionate alumni base in the country to achieve continued levels of success.”