After an extensive search, Cal State San Bernardino has selected Kerry Neal as the new major gift officer supporting the College of Arts and Letters and College of Education. Neal will join the University Advancement team on Monday, Aug. 17.

Neal, who served as the director of development with CSUSB’s Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration in 2006, is a seasoned philanthropy professional with 20 years of fundraising experience and has worked in both private and public institutions of higher learning in support of a variety of disciplines, programs and initiatives.

“It is an incredible honor to return to CSUSB to advance the timely and relevant philanthropic fundraising priorities of both the College of Education and the College of Arts and Letters,” Neal said. “We’re focused on our students and creating opportunities for them to learn, excel and prepare for their future.”

A skilled fundraising executive, Neal brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the areas of major and principal giving. He has played key roles in several comprehensive campaigns, including the historic $6 billion comprehensive campaign with USC, the $1 billion campaign with UC Irvine, and other ambitious campaigns with the St. Joseph Health Foundation of Orange, UC Riverside, Claremont Lincoln University, and The Chicago School Education System/Pacific Oaks College.

“I am confident Kerry will leverage his great experience and play a critical leadership role in helping us identify new and innovative ways to increase our donor base and philanthropy,” said Kimberly Shiner, associate vice president for University Advancement.

“The current health crisis challenges fundraising professionals everywhere to rethink and reimagine our work and how we engage current and potential supporters,” Neal said. “I’m thrilled to be supported by my leadership team, Kimberly Shiner and Robert Nava (vice president and executive director for the CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation), as well as I look forward to working closely with my colleagues campus-wide. Now, more than ever, our mission is critical to build financial support for the programs and initiatives that will help our students become the leaders of today and tomorrow.”

Neal received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Cal State Fullerton, his master’s in leadership and management (MSLM) from the University of La Verne, and holds professional certificates from UCLA Extension and the University of Michigan. He is also a graduate of the African American Board Leadership Institute (AABLI) and serves on their Development & Alumni Committee. Additionally, Neal is a newly appointed board member with the San Bernardino Valley College Foundation.