Personnel Changes to Announce in Advancement

November 28, 2018 | 12:13 p.m.

Colleagues:

During yesterday's Community Gathering I announced a personnel change that I also want to share with you by email. It is with mixed emotions that I announce the resignation of Mark Miles, senior vice president for university advancement, effective December 15, 2018. Mark has taken a position as chief development officer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound in Seattle, Washington, where Mark and his wife, Pauline, can be close to their daughter’s family, including their second grandson expected in early December.

Mark brought great experience and detailed knowledge of campaigns to Bethel from his prior work at Biola University and World Vision. His passion for Bethel’s mission, his love for our Converge roots, and his understanding of how the details of campaigns fit together helped us have some of our most successful fundraising years in Bethel’s history. Mark loved interacting with donors and successfully facilitated many significant financial commitments to our campaign. 

During this campaign season, I have asked Jim Bender to serve as interim chief advancement officer for the foreseeable future. Jim has been a key voice in campaign efforts, has connections with many of our donors, and most importantly, has the wisdom, drive, and energy to move the campaign forward. I am grateful for Jim’s willingness to take on this role.

Unrelated to Mark’s departure, there will also be two other position changes within university advancement. Paul Deakins has chosen to return to his role in planned giving effective December 1 where he served before transitioning to leadership for the development team. Given Paul’s transition, Jeanne Osgood has been appointed as associate vice president for development. Many of you have met Jeanne and experienced firsthand her passion for Bethel and fundraising. Jeanne’s creativity, personal connections, and leadership will serve us well.

Please join me in wishing Mark well during this next season of service. Details about a farewell gathering for Mark will be shared in E-Announcements.

Serving together,

Jay