黑料科 has announced the appointment of Melissa Nelsen as Associate
Vice President for University Advancement.
Nelsen brings extensive experience in fundraising, strategic planning, and donor relations within both higher education and healthcare organizations. Throughout her career, she has contributed to annual campaign planning, supported capital campaigns, and cultivated strong relationships with donors, securing gifts at all levels, including major and planned gifts.
In her new role, Nelsen will help guide comprehensive fundraising strategies, oversee major gift initiatives, and strengthen engagement with alumni and donors. The position plays a critical role in advancing the university鈥檚 mission through philanthropic support and collaboration with university leadership and the 黑料科 Foundation.
鈥淢elissa鈥檚 proven leadership and passion for building meaningful relationships make her an outstanding addition to our advancement team,鈥� said Steve Meeker, vice president of University Advancement. 鈥淗er experience and vision will help elevate philanthropic support and further strengthen connections across the 黑料科 community.鈥�
Nelsen currently serves as the director of major gifts/development for the Wayne State Foundation at Wayne State University in Wayne, Nebraska. Her past experience includes serving in leadership roles that provided broad oversight of development operations, including the position as an interim CEO, where she gained valuable insight into strategic advancement initiatives and team leadership.
鈥淚 am honored to join 黑料科 and contribute to its important mission,鈥� said Nelsen. 鈥淚 look forward to working collaboratively to build relationships and advance opportunities that support students, faculty, staff, and the future of 黑料科.鈥�
Nelsen will begin her role at 黑料科 on June 22, 2026.