Gretchen Buhlig

Chief Executive Officer at ASU Foundation for A New American University

Gretchen Buhlig is the Chief Executive Officer of the Arizona State University Foundation for a New American University, a position she has held since July 1, 2017. Buhlig joined the ASU Foundation in January 2012 and has been instrumental in driving significant fundraising initiatives and enhancing the philanthropic culture at ASU. Under her leadership, the foundation has achieved record-breaking fundraising success and launched Campaign ASU 2020, which raised over $2.35 billion.1 2 3

Background and Education::

Education: Buhlig holds a bachelor's degree from Augustana College and a master's degree in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from Walden University. She also earned a graduate certificate in Authentic Leadership from Harvard University.2 4
Previous Experience: Before her role at ASU, she served as the Associate Vice President for Institutional Advancement at A.T. Still University, where she developed collegiate development and alumni relations programs.1 2

Achievements:: Buhlig has been recognized for her ability to cultivate relationships with donors, significantly increasing the number of individual and corporate contributors to ASU. She has also played a key role in shaping the foundation's strategic plans and enhancing collaboration among university stakeholders.1 3 Her efforts have not only supported educational initiatives but have also aimed at increasing access to education through scholarships and community engagement programs like Women & Philanthropy, which she co-founded.1 2

In summary, Gretchen Buhlig's leadership at the ASU Foundation has been marked by innovative fundraising strategies, strategic planning, and a commitment to fostering a culture of philanthropy that aligns with the university's mission of inclusivity and societal impact.