Robert R. Davis, UD assistant vice president for alumni and University relations since 1997, has been named vice president for development and alumni relations.

"Bob Davis has performed outstandingly in a number of assignments and has headed alumni and University relations efforts for six years. His long-term management of University-wide programs and events has resulted in countless opportunities for very positive constituent interaction at our University," President David P. Roselle said. "We are lucky to have someone with his range of experience, expertise and dedication available for this important assignment.

"I am greatly indebted to Bob, not only for his countless contributions in the past to his alma mater, but especially now for his willingness to assume this new responsibility and carry forward the important work begun on the Campaign for Delaware," Roselle said.

The $225 million Campaign for Delaware is the University's first, comprehensive capital campaign in the institution's 255-year history.

Davis, who holds two bachelor's degrees from UD and a master's degree in education administration from Bowling Green University, has been a UD employee since 1977. He previously was dean of students and director of public information at Wilmington College.

At UD, Davis has served in a number of capacities in the alumni relations office and the development office, including as director of research and records during the University's 150th anniversary capital campaign, which supported an addition to Morris Library as well as scholarships.

He was director of University relations in the Office of the President for nine years before becoming director of the combined offices of alumni and University relations in 1993. The combined office has responsibility for alumni activities and major academic ceremonies, including commencements, as well as other University-wide special events, ranging from the Performing Arts Series and Summer Arts Festival to parents programs.

Davis is a member of several campus committees, including the Trustee Committee on Honorary Degrees and Awards, the Faculty Senate Committee on Student and Faculty Honors and the Student Appellate Court.

He is active in numerous organizations, including the National Society of Fund-Raising Executives and the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), and he serves on the boards of the New Castle Historical Society and the Amstel House Museum in New Castle.

He and his wife, Mary, have two sons, one of whom is a current UD student. The family lives in New Castle.