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Office of Advancement

The Office of University Advancement is pivotal in driving the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith forward. The division is a catalyst for institutional progress and comprises several vital units - Alumni Engagement, Marketing, Communications, Finance, Operations, and Development.

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Blake Rickman

Alumni Engagement fosters ongoing community and loyalty among UAFS alumni and other stakeholders, elevating the university’s image and reputation. From planning events and activities that build everlasting bonds between Lions to sharing the news of their university, the office inspires our alums to stay engaged and informed.

The Marketing office enhances the university’s image, manages its brand, and maintains its reputation. Consisting of Creative Services and Web Administration the department oversees the development and production of promotional materials, the UAFS.edu website, and the UAFS licensing and branding operation.

The Strategic Communications office leads the university’s media relations, external and inter communications, social media, and publications strategies to tell the university's stories and communicate its values.

The Finance and Operations department oversees the University Advancement division’s budget, financial reporting, analyses, and continued compliance with financial regulations and institutional policies. Beyond their duties with the institution, the division manages more than $120 Million in assets for the UAFS Foundation, Inc. The Foundation’s capacity for support is transformational and vital to the future of UAFS. The Finance and Operations department ensures the funds are accounted for, audited, and managed sophisticatedly and transparently.

The Development department, at the heart of the mission of university Advancement, is focused on securing financial support from a broad range of sources, including university alums, corporate and private foundations, and individual donors. The work of UAFS development officers is crucial in sustaining and expanding the university’s academic programs, teaching and research initiatives, scholarship offerings, and campus facilities. These professionals are dedicated to engaging with our generous donors and fostering strong, fulfilling relationships that advance the university’s mission.

By implementing these core functions with excellence, the Office of University Advancement is a driving force behind the success and continued growth of the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith.

 

Meet the team

Vice Chancellor of University Advancement and Executive Director - UAFS Foundation, Inc.
 
Assistant to the Vice Chancellor
 
Strategy and Assessment Analyst

Director
 
Assistant Director

Director of Communications

Tina Dale
Publications Editor
 
Communications Specialist

Senior Director of Development
 
Director of Corporate and Foundation Engagement

Charisse Tunacao
Director of Annual Giving
 
Development Coordinator - Corporate and Foundation Engagement
 
Donor Experience Officer
 
Director of Donor Relations

Senior Director
 
Assistant Director - Data Management
 
Fiscal Support Manager
 
Staff Accountant
 
Administrative Assistant

Assistant Vice Chancellor - Marketing
 
Trent Aday
Videographer
 
Web Specialist
 
Editor/Production Coordinator
 
Graphic Designer
 
Senior Graphic Designer/Art Director
 

Our Team is Here to Help!

Our dedicated team is here to walk beside you every step of the way, helping you shape a legacy that reflects your values and ignites futures across our community. Whether you're passionate about expanding access, supporting innovation, or honoring someone who changed your life — we’ll help you bring that vision to life.

Start your gift conversation today!