Medical Philanthropy and Alumni Relations
Department lead: Niles Eggleston, senior associate vice president, Medical Philanthropy and Alumni Relations
Medical Philanthropy and Alumni Relations supports the DAR mission by connecting donors to opportunities that advance clinical care, medical education and research across Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, VCU Health and the School of Medicine. MPAR includes five frontline fundraising pods — cancer research and care, medicine and health sciences, healthy hearts and communities, integrated care and neurosciences—as well the Strategic Engagement team. Together, we align donor interests with institutional priorities, helping fuel discovery, innovation and excellence in academic medicine.
Teams in MPAR
Team lead: Michelle Adcock, executive director, Strategic Engagement
How does this team fulfill the DAR mission?
MPAR Strategic Engagement advances the DAR mission by building meaningful relationships among donors, alumni and the Massey, VCU Health and School of Medicine communities. We translate complex medical priorities into compelling philanthropic opportunities, ensure exceptional donor experiences and strengthen engagement through impactful storytelling, events, stewardship and volunteer leadership. Our work drives donor retention, inspires giving and builds long-term loyalty to VCU and VCU Health.
What does this team do?
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Development Communications – Develops publications, impact reports, digital content and campaign messaging that connect donors to the mission and impact of their gifts.
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Donor Relations and Stewardship – Manages acknowledgment processes, stewardship reports, endowment reporting and donor recognition strategies.
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Primary Giving – Oversees direct response campaigns, both print and digital, serves as lead for Giving Day for MPAR initiatives, MPAR primary giving data analysis and strategy, serves as lead on direct response for grateful patient data.
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Signature Events – Produces mission-driven events and cultivation opportunities that highlight philanthropy’s role in advancing health care, education and research.
- Board and Volunteer Engagement – Supports advisory boards (Massey and Pauley) and key volunteers who serve as champions and connectors for our philanthropic mission.
When should you contact this team?
- The Strategic Engagement team collaborates closely with frontline fundraisers, DAR colleagues and clinical partners to ensure every touchpoint with donors reflects the excellence and mission of VCU and VCU Health. Contact the Strategic Engagement for support with donor communications, event planning, stewardship, annual giving, volunteer engagement or messaging tailored to the academic medical community.