McCray named vice president for Development at Augusta University

Brandon T. McCray, an executive with more than 25 years of experience in developing and leading high performing teams in higher education and creating a thriving culture of philanthropy, has been named vice president for Development in Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement at Augusta University, effective Aug. 1, 2022.

In his new role, McCray will be responsible for overall strategic leadership for development at Augusta University and the AU Health System. He will serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet, providing innovative leadership for development, alumni relations, and community and donor engagement, while shepherding a successful capital campaign. McCray will work closely with AU’s partner foundations to help ensure advancement goals are met as a critical part of the ambitious growth outlined in the university’s new strategic plan, Creating a Legacy Like No Other.

“Brandon has extensive experience in managing large, complex and sophisticated fundraising operations focused on higher education, as well as banking and financial insight,” said Russell Keen, EdD, executive vice president for administration and chief of staff to the president. “He will be a remarkable addition to the leadership team at Augusta University as we continue advancing the mission of Augusta University and AU Health.”

Most recently, as interim vice president, Development-Constituent Programs at Florida State University Foundations, Brandon directed university-wide fundraising initiatives and supervised the departments of annual giving; regional, corporate and foundations; and gift planning; as well as constituent development professionals within 16 colleges and units.

“I am very pleased to be joining a thriving institution like Augusta University,” McCray said. “I am impressed with the amazing people, bold vision and tremendous momentum at AU, and I look forward to working closely with executive leadership, my new team, faculty, staff, students, and community and state partners to advance the university’s philanthropic endeavors.”

As the vice president for development, McCray will play a strategic role in Augusta University’s upcoming comprehensive capital campaign. He has served in a leadership capacity within five such capital campaigns, including the $125 million Power of Transformation Campaign for the University of North Florida and the $1.2 billion Raise the Torch Campaign for Florida State.

“Brandon has demonstrated experience in development including managing comprehensive campaigns, and I am confident that his unique experiences and leadership skills will help advance our mission to serve the students and patients who entrust us with their education and health care,” said President Brooks A. Keel, PhD. “I welcome Brandon to our leadership team.”