Roanoke College is pleased to welcome Mary Grace Theodore to the role of interim vice president for advancement. Theodore will step in for Kim Blair ’93, who has accepted a position as senior director of principal gifts and strategic initiatives with the Carilion Clinic Foundation. Theodore and Blair will work hand in hand to ensure a seamless transition.
“For 12 years, Mary Grace has been a steady, consistent and talented ambassador for the College, including leading our last capital campaign,” said President Frank Shushok Jr. “We are fortunate to have her serving in this important interim role.”
Theodore, who joined the College in 2012, steps into the interim position from her role as associate vice president for advancement. Prior to that, she served as assistant vice president for development and campaign director.
“Mary Grace has the knowledge, fundraising acumen, and – most importantly – immense care for our Maroon family of alumni, parents, donors and friends,” Blair said. “Roanoke College can rest assured that it is in exceptionally capable hands with Mary Grace at the helm. Her leadership ensures continuity and excellence."
Theodore brings decades of higher education experience to the job, including extensive familiarity with advancement and fundraising. Before joining the team at Roanoke, she held multiple roles in advancement at Virginia Tech, including regional director of major gifts and campaign director. Prior to that, she served for eight years as associate dean of students at Randolph-Macon College.
Theodore holds a B.S. in marketing and an M.A. in student personnel administration in higher education, both from Ball State University.
“I’m honored to fill in during this important transition,” Theodore said, “and I am confident that our dedicated team will continue to advance our beloved college as we continue our momentum toward a bright future.”