Meet Our Team
A great advancement team is comprised of great people who have a passion for their work. Read below to see what some of our leaders and staff members have to say about why they work at the University of Rochester.
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A Message from Jim Thompson Senior Vice President Chief Advancement Officer “We are building one of the nation’s most innovative and donor-centric Advancement programs at the University of Rochester. We have been given a unique opportunity to help this already great private research university reach new heights and benefit countless lives and future generations. “This is an exceptionally warm and collaborative community. We are committed to forming a family of talented advancement staff and volunteers, and we strive to maximize the potential and professional growth of every team member. We work collectively to make success possible for each individual and celebrate our achievements together. “Advancement work at the University of Rochester is rewarding, challenging, and fun. If you are seeking an exciting work environment and tremendous opportunities for developing leadership skills, then I encourage you to take time and learn more about our growing Division.” |
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Peter Briechle, Senior Director of Research and Prospect Management, came to us from Cornell.
"What attracted me to the University of Rochester was the size and scope of the Advancement reorganization. Not only is UR contemplating a $1B+ capital campaign, but we are also converting the prospect management system to SunGard/Advance; renovating an existing building to create a world class Alumni Center and development office; and hiring top advancement personnel from all over the country. The enthusiasm of the new senior leadership along with the commitment and dedication of long-time employees convinced me that UR was the place to be." |
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Stephanie Katz, Senior Director of the George Eastman Society, came to us from Harvard.
"I chose Rochester for three reasons: The outstanding reputation of the University; the opportunity to work under the leadership of President Seligman and Senior Vice President of Advancement Jim Thompson; and the chance to create and build a program that will truly make a meaningful difference to the University." |
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Jack Kreckel, Associate VP of University Advancement for Principal Gifts, Trusts and Estates, has been with the University for more than 20 years. "What keeps me here? The ability to impact a world-class institution that makes a meaningful difference in my community and nation. Donors who have become friends and positive role models. The pure joy of the work. It is world class but small in size. It really does live up to its motto: Meliora (always better) My sophomore son loves it!" |
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Martha Osowski, Director of University Advancement Projects and Senior Director of Advancement Information Services, has been with us for nearly 20 years. "I love the University atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and challenge, and the learning environment. I'm a believer in the value of a liberal arts education to prepare you for life and how to think, no matter where life takes you. I love the city of Rochester for its mixture of a manageable city environment with easy access to nature and gorgeous countryside. I love the seasons. People in Rochester appreciate gorgeous weather, whether it's a beautiful new snowfall or a hot summer day. What I love most about the University of Rochester is Rush Rhees Library, and the Eastman School of Music campus on Gibbs Street." |
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Kirk Swenson, Assistant Vice President of Capital and Special Projects, came to us from Ithaca College and MIT. "I am very impressed by the University of Rochester's commitment to building the best advancement organization in the country. Through the interview process and my first weeks here, I have become convinced we have some of the finest advancement professionals in the business." |
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Heather Ruggio, Senior Director User Services, came to us from Northwestern
"We are being given the opportunity and resources to grow and shape the advancement division and University, and it is exciting to be a part of it. Rochester is a great city. It has many of the benefits of bigger cities, but with shorter distances to travel." |
