Heather Engel has joined the University of Virginia community as the next Associate Vice President of Gift Planning, University Advancement. Heather has spent the last 15 years at the Rochester Institute of Technology in various advancement leadership roles, most recently in the role of Associate Vice President for University Development and Engagement. Prior to her move to higher education, Heather spent nearly 13 years practicing law in Illinois, Massachusetts, and California. She specialized in estate planning for high net worth individuals.
In addition to her numerous professional accomplishments, Heather has been regularly involved in several boards, such as the EquiCenter, Inc. Board, the Susan B. Anthony House Board, and the Images Cinema Board. Using her development expertise, she has voluntarily led the Villa of Hope, Development Advisory Group and Upstate New York Planned Giving Council.
Heather holds a Juris Doctor from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Illinois and a Bachelor of Arts degree from DePauw University. Heather will begin her new role on May 20th, 2019.