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Bill Bole
Associate Vice President For Development at Lehigh University
Professional Background
Bill Bole is a distinguished professional with a robust career in development and fundraising, particularly within the academic and healthcare sectors. Currently serving as the Associate Vice President for Development at Lehigh University, Bill has a rich history of fostering significant philanthropic support for various educational institutions. His extensive experience in development strategies, alumni relations, and major gifts has made him a sought-after leader in the field.
Before stepping into his key role at Lehigh University, Bill held several prominent positions at the University of Pennsylvania, where he made tremendous contributions to the institution’s fundraising efforts. As the Executive Director of Development and Alumni Relations for Penn Medicine, Bill played a pivotal role in strengthening relationships with alumni and donors, leading to substantial financial contributions that enhanced the college's programs and resources. His journey through various leadership roles includes serving as the Senior Associate Director of Major Gifts, where his tactical approach to major donor cultivation significantly elevated the university's fundraising metrics.
Bill's influence extends beyond the University of Pennsylvania as he also served as the Director of Principal and Planned Gifts at Fox Chase Cancer Center. In this role, he adeptly solicited and secured major gifts that propelled the center's mission and research initiatives forward. His foundational experience also includes the positions of Senior Major Gifts Officer and Director of Annual Giving at the University of Pennsylvania, each role honing his skills in donor engagement and management.
His career commenced with an early focus on annual giving roles, serving as both Assistant Director of Annual Giving at Villanova University and at St. Joseph's Prep, indicating a longstanding commitment to nurturing donor relationships and advancing educational opportunities. Within these capacities, he developed a deep understanding of the academic sector's unique needs and strengths, which he has adeptly leveraged throughout his career.
Education and Achievements
Bill Bole's educational background lays the groundwork for his impressive career in development. He first earned his High School Diploma from St. Joe's Prep, where his foundational learning and commitment to excellence were developed. He then pursued a Bachelor of Arts in History and Philosophy from the University of Scranton. His academic journey continued at Villanova University, where he obtained his M.A. in History. This combination of history and philosophy has endowed Bill with a profound understanding of human values, societal dynamics, and strategic thinking—an asset that undoubtedly informs his work in the philanthropic sector.
Bill has not only demonstrated exceptional capability in his professional roles but has also left notable footprints in each position. His strategic vision and ability to engage with stakeholders have led to successful campaigns that have significantly increased the capacity of the organizations he has served. Every step in his career reflects a commitment to building communities and enhancing the educational frameworks within which they operate.
Achievements
Bill Bole is recognized for his significant achievements throughout his career. His strategic leadership at Lehigh University as Associate Vice President for Development sees him playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the institution through effective philanthropic efforts. His previous roles at Penn Medicine highlight his prowess in securing transformative gifts that support groundbreaking research and patient care developments.
Moreover, Bill's tenure as Director of Principal and Planned Gifts at Fox Chase Cancer Center shaped the trajectory of funding for crucial cancer research initiatives. His innovative approaches to gift planning and principal giving have inspired many, leading to the realization of critical programs and facilities.
Bill’s career is not only marked by positions held but also by the tangible impact of his work, driving forward the missions of various institutions. His ability to build meaningful relationships with donors and stakeholders has resulted in lasting partnerships that continue to benefit the institutions well into the future. As he advances through his career, Bill remains a pivotal figure in the realm of educational development and philanthropic innovation.