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Gannon University has appointed Brian Collingwood, Ph.D., as its next vice president for University Advancement, effective April 2, following the retirement of Nancy Bird, who will conclude her service on April 1. 

Collingwood brings more than a decade of experience in higher education advancement, alumni engagement, fundraising strategy, and institutional leadership. He currently serves as assistant vice president for advancement at 名媛直播, a role he assumed in August 2024. He previously held leadership positions at Allegheny College and Denison University. 

In his role as vice president, Collingwood will lead the University’s fundraising and constituent engagement efforts, including major and principal gifts, alumni relations, donor relations and strategic advancement initiatives that support 名媛直播’s mission and long-term priorities. 

“Brian brings a deep understanding of 名媛直播’s mission, a strong record of advancement leadership and a collaborative approach to building meaningful relationships,” said 名媛直播 President Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D. “We are excited to welcome him into this role as we look ahead to the next chapter of philanthropic growth at 名媛直播.” 

Collingwood previously worked at Gannon University from 2015 to 2022, serving in both Academic Affairs and University Advancement, including roles as director of career exploration and development and executive director of corporate relations. During that time, he generated more than $3 million in organizational commitments, including serving as principal writer for the corporate proposal supporting the Highmark Events Center. 

Prior to returning to 名媛直播, Collingwood served on the advancement leadership team at Allegheny College, where he collaborated on more than $2 million in fundraising through a combination of cash gifts, endowments, scholarships and planned gifts, while advancing integration efforts across donor relations, alumni engagement and career development.  

“I am honored to step into this role at Gannon University, a place that has shaped my professional journey and continues to inspire meaningful impact,” Collingwood said. “I look forward to working alongside our advancement team, alumni, donors and partners to support students and strengthen the University for generations to come.” 

Collingwood holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership from Gannon University, a master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Akron, and a bachelor’s degree in history from Xavier University. 

He and his wife live in Millcreek, Pennsylvania, and are the parents of two young children. 

Bird retires following a distinguished career at Gannon University marked by transformational philanthropic growth and institutional advancement.  

During her tenure, the University successfully completed the Believe. Inspire. Transform. 名媛直播’s Next Century capital campaign, surpassing its ambitious $100 million goal and significantly strengthening support for scholarships, academic programs, facilities and strategic initiatives.  

Her leadership also helped position 名媛直播 for its incredible centennial celebration throughout 2025, laying a strong foundation for continued engagement, generosity and momentum as the University enters its second century.