Thomas Egan has joined Cleary University as director of development. He will lead the university’s fundraising activities, which include planned giving programs, corporate philanthropy, foundation relationships, major gift donations and endowments.
“Tom will serve as a strong liaison between Cleary and our community,” said Alan Drimmer, president of Cleary University. “He has a proven track record as an effective relationship-driven leader who becomes deeply rooted in the community, establishing and cultivating long-term connections with businesses, stakeholders, alumni, students and families. His high energy, passion for education and collaborative style are an ideal fit for Cleary and our community.”
Egan comes to Cleary from Kinexus Youth Solutions in Benton Harbor, where he was director of strategic partnerships. In that position, he worked to remove obstacles and barriers for disadvantaged and vulnerable youth by developing innovative plans and partnerships that connected 3,500 young people with employers, post-secondary institutions and other organizations across the state, giving these students every opportunity for educational and career success.
Egan also worked at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo as director of development and alumni relations. During his tenure, he was instrumental in building the university’s endowment and scholarships, as well as innovative capital projects. He launched a major giving capital campaign to create the university’s Institute for Design and Innovation, secured a capital gift for the university’s DREAM Lab, cultivated and closed a major gift for the Center for Financial Literacy, and specialized in raising money from first-time donors for other university endeavors.
“I am excited to join this student-focused, well-respected, innovative university,” Egan said. “With persistence, partnerships, and the support of a talented and invested staff, I am looking forward to rolling up my sleeves, and working alongside businesses, stakeholders and community members to facilitate local and statewide initiatives that will help Cleary emerge as a pioneer in educational growth and academic opportunities.”
