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Justin Pusczykowski
I assist individuals who want their charitable gifts to make a difference in the world through UIC people, programs and projects.
Professional Background
Justin Pusczykowski is a dedicated professional with a robust background in advancement and development, particularly within the field of higher education. Since his arrival at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) on July 23, 2018, he has played an integral role in bolstering charitable initiatives through the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Advancement. In October 2020, Justin transitioned to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, further amplifying his impact on the institution.
In his current role, Justin primarily serves as the point of contact for individuals, foundations, and corporations looking to contribute their philanthropic efforts to meaningful causes at UIC. His insights and dedication help facilitate critical conversations aimed at maximizing the impact of charitable gifts, thereby allowing them to resonate through people, programs, and projects across the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Throughout his career, Justin has amassed over 15 years of experience in various capacities related to development and advancement within both small and large institutions of higher education. His career path has not been a straight line; notably, Justin took a brief detour to co-direct a small family business, where he honed his skills in management and leadership before returning to the field of academic advancement at UIC. This diverse background enriches Justin's perspective and enhances his ability to connect with various stakeholders effectively.
Currently, Justin is deeply involved in the university's ambitious capital campaign, Ignite: The Campaign for UIC, which aims to surpass a goal of $750 million. This monumental effort is about more than just numbers; it represents a commitment to fostering transformational relationships with individuals and organizations that share a belief in the power of higher education to effect change. Justin and his team are committed to helping potential donors understand how their contributions can significantly influence the lives of UIC students, support transformative research, and enhance scholarship opportunities.
Education and Achievements
Justin's academic credentials lay a solid foundation for his success in development and leadership roles. He holds a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from Michigan State University's Eli Broad Graduate School of Management, where he gained vital knowledge in business administration and management. Prior to that, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing from Albright College, further equipping him with the tools necessary for successful marketing and interpersonal engagement. Additional studies in Economics and Business at Virginia Military Institute have broadened his understanding of financial systems and economic principles, enriching his capabilities as a development officer.
Over the years, Justin has held prestigious positions in various institutions, emphasizing his ability to drive results within the realm of higher education fundraising. For example, serving as the Director of Development at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at UIC, he built a network of engagement that facilitated significant financial contributions to the college's programs and research initiatives. His previous experience as the Director of Development for Major Gifts at UIC showcased his talent in handling large-scale donations and developing relationships with high-impact donors.
Notable Positions Held
- Director of Development, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago
- Director Of Development, Major Gifts, University of Illinois Chicago
- Lead Commercial Officer, Industries International, LLC
- Director, Reunions & Major Gifts, University of Michigan
- Assistant Manager, Leadership Annual Gifts, University of Michigan
- Director, Annual Fund & Call Center, Albright College
- Individual Banker, Santander Bank, N.A.
These roles reflect a trajectory of increasing responsibility and expertise in donor relations, campaign management, and advancement strategy. At every step, Justin has demonstrated his deep commitment to higher education and the impact of philanthropy on academic institutions.
Achievements
Justin's achievements are not just quantified by the monetary values he has helped to secure. They are also marked by the significant relationships he has established and nurtured within the higher education sector. He excels in fostering a culture of giving and engagement among alumni, parents, and corporate partners, making him an invaluable asset to his institution.
As a key player in the Ignite campaign, Justin looks forward to igniting a conversation with prospective donors about the transformative power of higher education. He understands that each contribution, no matter how large or small, is a vital thread in the fabric of UIC’s commitment to student success and academic excellence. He ensures that donors are not only heard but also feel valued and part of the larger UIC family.
In his current position, Justin continues to explore innovative strategies to engage potential donors, leveraging digital tools and personalized outreach efforts to explain how they can be instrumental in shaping the future of education, research, and community service at UIC. His expertise, paired with his passion for education and service, positions him uniquely within the realm of institutional advancement.
Justin Pusczykowski looks forward to continuing his impactful work at the University of Illinois at Chicago and is eager to spark conversations that inspire action toward enhancing educational opportunities and resources for students and faculty alike. Through his unwavering dedication to philanthropic advancement, he reaffirms the profound impact that education has on individuals and society as a whole.
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