UW News

May 29, 2008

UW Bothell names vice chancellor for advancement and external relations

Richard Penny has been named vice chancellor for advancement and external relations at UW Bothell. “We are delighted to have Dr. Penny join UW Bothell in this pivotal leadership role,” said Chancellor Kenyon Chan. “With extensive experience in fundraising, communications, government affairs and strategic planning, he will enable us to develop and grow our advancement efforts into the future.”



As vice chancellor for advancement and external relations, Penny will direct the external and donor relations of UW Bothell and provide leadership and services that influence and support the institution’s mission and goals. In this newly formed role, he will oversee development, public relations and communications, alumni relations, and government and community affairs.


Penny brings more than 12 years of experience in advancement at the director level with additional background in marketing and government affairs. He comes to UW Bothell from the Seattle Community College District where he served as interim executive director for advancement. Concurrently, Penny served as executive director of fund development at South Seattle Community College. His previous positions include director of development and marketing for Deaconess Children’s Services and director of development and communications for Friends of the River.


In his roles with the Seattle Community College District and South Seattle Community College, Penny led the $25 million Campaign for Seattle Colleges. He increased annual revenue for the SSCC Foundation from $700,000 to over $2 million and increased invested assets from $3 million to $6 million. Additionally, he planned, raised funds and launched the “13th Year Promise Scholarship” and led the “Start Here, Go Anywhere” student retention and completion plan.


Penny received his BA in psychology from Wake-Forest University, his MBA from City University, his doctorate in psychology and neurobiology from Duke University, and his postdoctoral training in neurobiology from the University of Tennessee School of Medicine. He is a Certified Fundraising Executive and a Certified Financial Planner. Presently, he is a student in the Washington Executive Leadership Academy, a year-long development academy for future college presidents and vice presidents.


Penny is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, the Council for Resource Development and Rotary International. Additionally, he serves as adjunct faculty at Walden University, College of Education and Heritage University, College of Education and Psychology.