By Eli Hughes–

University of Louisville President Neeli Bendapudi announced that Vice President of Advancement Bradley Shafer will be stepping down from his position and leaving U of L on Aug. 1. Shafer is choosing to resign in order to move closer to family.

According to Bendapudi, Shafer rebuilt the University Advancement program during his two years in the vice president position. The office of University Advancement is responsible for making progress in the university through improving fundraising, donor and alumni relations, recruitment, and marketing.

“Some important changes include leading a two-year increase in fundraising dollars (reversing a three-year decrease), creating and implementing goals and metrics for development officers, creating a donor portal to ensure transparency and raising $129 million in FY 2019-20, 34 percent above goal,” Bendapudi said.

“I am tremendously pleased with the significant progress made in the Advancement Office during the last two years,” Shafer said. “Specifically, I am proud of the turn-around in absolute dollars committed, installing several processes/policies based on industry best-practices and creating measurable increases in donor engagement, board giving and signature fund-raising projects.”

Shafer became the interim vice president in July of 2018 and was placed in the position permanently in April of 2019.

“Personally, we look forward to being nearer to our families as I take the next step in my career,” Shafer said.

Bendapudi concluded the email announcement by wishing Shafer well and hinting that a replacement vice president of the advancement program will be decided in the coming weeks..

Photo Courtesy//The University of Louisville