Harry Stephens named ESU major gifts officer

The Emporia State University Foundation has announced that long-time ESU administrator Harry Stephens has been named the new associate director of development for major gifts. Beginning in January, Stephens will be responsible for cultivating donors and soliciting gifts of $10,000 or more.

“For many years, Harry has given his time and talents to help current students achieve their dreams,” said Boyce Baumgardner, executive director for university advancement. “Through this new role in major gifts, he’ll be in a terrific position to benefit generations of future students, as well.”

Stephens earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Emporia State University and received his Ph.D. from the University of Northern Colorado. He has served ESU for almost four decades through numerous student-oriented positions. He was the vice president of student affairs from 1989 until 1999, when he accepted an appointment to serve in the Kansas State Senate. Upon his return to ESU, Stephens began phased retirement. Most recently, he has been teaching graduate coursework in student counseling, coordinating the institutional self-study for the Higher Learning Commission accreditation and serving as the Greek alumni liaison.

Stephens is looking forward to helping students in the capacity of a development officer.

“Student and faculty support is more important than ever because of declining revenues and increasing expenses,” said Stephens. “Development plays an important role because it gives alumni and friends the ability to contribute to the success of the university. I think my experiences with students will allow me to speak positively with alumni about their experiences at ESU.”

In addition to his work at ESU, Stephens serves on the boards of directors of both the Humane Society and the Emporia Granada Theatre, and is an officer for the Emporia Sunrise Rotary. He has also served as a 4-H leader for 22 years, and has volunteered his time to the Lyon County Council on Aging and the Lyon County Extension Council.

Last Updated July 2, 2007>