Stetson University has named Jeffrey A. Ulmer as vice president for development and alumni engagement. Ulmer joins Stetson from the University of Central Florida where he serves as assistant vice president overseeing fundraising at multiple academic colleges. Prior to that Ulmer was responsible for setting the strategic direction for UCF’s Athletic Development Program. 

“I am excited to join the distinguished community of faculty, staff and students at Stetson,” said Ulmer. “I look forward to working with President Wendy Libby and Stetson’s vibrant alumni community to advance the national and international prominence of this great university.” 

Ulmer was selected following a national search. As Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement, Ulmer will provide strategic vision, focus and direction for Stetson’s development and alumni relations efforts. He will also provide innovative leadership in annual and comprehensive campaigns, corporation and foundation relations, planned giving, major gifts, donor relations and stewardship, and prospect research and management. 

“Jeff is coming to Stetson at an important time because of the rapid, positive trajectory the university is on,” said Stetson President Wendy B. Libby, Ph.D. “We were attracted by Jeff’s strong track record in relationship building with alumni, donors and friends, as well as his team-building capabilities. 

“We are thrilled to have Jeff join our staff, and we are confident that he is the right person to lead the Development Office during this exciting time,” said Libby. “It is a real plus that he knows Central Florida and the greater Orlando business community. His varied experience in academics and athletics will serve us well.” 

Prior to working with UCF, Ulmer was president of the University of Mississippi Athletics Association Foundation, executive director of development for athletics and the National Commodore Club at Vanderbilt University, and assistant dean for development and alumni relations at Vanderbilt University Law School. He also worked in development for the University of Florida’s Warrington College of Business, Fredric G. Levin College of Law, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. A 1985 graduate of the University of Florida, Ulmer is a former assistant strength and conditioning coach for the National Football League’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

Ulmer begins his new position on April 28. He is replacing Vice President for University Relations Carol Julian, who is retiring.