Davenport University has named Brian Clark as its new executive director of development. Clark has 15 years of philanthropic experience raising funds for social service agencies. He spent the last 10 years as the director of Development and Donor Care at Senior Neighbors in Grand Rapids.

Rachel Render, the executive vice president for Advancement at Davenport, announced Clark’s appointment effective March 18, 2024.

“We are excited to have someone with Brian’s experience and relationships within the community join our advancement team at Davenport,” Render said. “The university has several new initiatives, and Brian has a great track record of connecting the community to worthwhile programs that benefit the larger region.”

Clark is a Michigan native with a bachelor’s degree from the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University. He said his career has consistently put him in the position of connecting people to their desire to help others.

“I am thrilled to join the dynamic community at Davenport,” Clark said. “The university has passionate donors and a dedicated staff that dedicates itself to helping ambitious students realize their dreams. I am humbled by the opportunity to assist donors in following their passions to empower young minds with their financial gifts.”

Clark joins Davenport’s Advancement team currently working on the $35 million Elevate Campaign to support the First-Generation Success Initiative, the College of Urban Education expansion, mental health, Online+ digital learning and the newly launched Casa Latina bilingual program.