In his new role, he will be responsible for all major gift efforts for the foundation. Berger will work in conjunction with senior foundation leadership and a team of eight directors of development to establish and lead a philanthropic strategy focused on increasing the number of major gifts and new major gift donors to the foundation. Additionally, he will be responsible for managing a portfolio of major gift donors and assisting with overall campaign planning.
“I’m thrilled that Derek will be our next AVP for development! He has proven himself to be an excellent relationship-builder, matching the philanthropic goals of many alumni and friends with Ball State’s strategic priorities. He will do an excellent job leading our major gifts team and preparing us for the upcoming Centennial campaign,” said Mark Helmus, senior vice president for development, Ball State University Foundation.
Berger most recently served as the director of development for the Ball State Teachers College. During his tenure with Teachers College he raised more than $4 million in support of the college, Burris Laboratory School, and the Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities. He also represented the university in regional development efforts in Florida and Missouri.
Prior to serving as director of development, Berger worked as the assistant director of annual giving at Ball State where he administered direct mail, online solicitations, and special fundraising efforts on behalf of the entire university.
“Derek brings proven fundraising success to this role, as well as strong relationships with his colleagues in the foundation and throughout the Ball State community. He’s excellent with our alumni and friends and is a very creative thinker,” said Cheri’ O’Neill, president of the Ball State University Foundation.
Berger is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in secondary education and Ball State University with a Master of Arts in student affairs administration in higher education. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education in adult, higher, and community education at Ball State.
Berger serves as the chair of University Council, is a CASE Indiana board member, and is the advisor for the Ball State Chapter of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity.
His new role started August 10, 2015. Congratulations to Derek Berger for his continued success.