It is with very mixed emotions that I write to inform you Brian Couch will be transitioning from Notre Dame to serve as the Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Ave Maria University. In his four years at Our Lady’s University, Brian has made a transformative and lasting impact on our Annual Giving Programs and broader Development efforts. His leadership has resulted in a 31% increase in our unrestricted revenue, resulting in a record $42 million in FY 2015. Brian’s focus on exceptional talent and process improvements has resulted in the hiring of an incredibly talented and dedicated team with a focus on excellence. Moreover, his leadership introduced the vision of Notre Dame Day, an effort which has resulted in the most successful philanthropic day in higher education to drive total donor count. Brian would be the first to credit the outstanding team in Annual Giving Programs for the record success.
In his new role, Brian will lead all advancement efforts for Ave Maria University, a private Catholic university founded in 2003 in Southwest Florida. Brian and Beth will move their family to Florida, and Brian will begin his role as Vice President March 28th.
I will work closely with the Annual Giving teams in the coming weeks as we navigate Brian’s transition to Ave Maria. I am deeply grateful for his friendship, leadership, and dedication to Notre Dame. Please join me in congratulating Brian on this incredible opportunity, and thanking him for his service to Our Lady at Notre Dame and in the future at Ave Maria.
My best,
Micki
Congratulations Brian. Blessings to you and your family!