By Nathan Duff
Dr. Suzette Matthews is the new Vice President for University Advancement and Executive Director of the Delta State University Foundation.
Delta State University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Suzette Matthews as the new Vice President for University Advancement and Executive Director of the Delta State University Foundation, pending approval from the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL). Dr. Matthews will officially begin her role on July 1, 2024.
Matthews joins Delta State from the University of Mississippi, where she served as Executive Director of Development. In her previous position, she oversaw frontline fundraisers in the College of Liberal Arts, School of Engineering, School of Education, and School of Law. Under her leadership, these units collectively raised over $27 million during the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Prior to that, Matthews was the Senior Director of Development at the University of Mississippi School of Law, managing fundraising strategy and donor engagement.
Matthews holds an undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University, a master’s degree from Delta State University, and a doctorate in education from the University of Mississippi.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Suzette Matthews back to Delta State University in this vital leadership role,” said Dr. Daniel J. Ennis, President of Delta State University. “Her extensive experience and successful track record in fundraising will be invaluable as we continue to advance the mission of our university.”
The search committee, chaired by Dr. Edwin Craft, Associate Vice President for Finance and Administration, conducted a national search and reviewed numerous candidates, culminating in on-campus interviews. Dr. Hugh Smith, President of the Delta State Foundation Board of Directors, also played a crucial role in the selection process, ensuring a consensus choice.
David Gladden, who has effectively served as Interim Vice President, will return full-time to his role as Chief Financial Officer of the Foundation. “We are grateful to Mr. Gladden for his dedication and leadership during this transitional period,” said Ennis.
For more information about the Delta State University Foundation, visit https://deltastategiving.org/.