Dillard University proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Darvelle Hutchins as Vice President for Institutional Advancement. In this executive role, Dr. Hutchins will lead the Office of Institutional Advancement, overseeing fundraising, communications, community and government relations, marketing, alumni relations, and strategic partnerships to further strengthen Dillard’s legacy of academic distinction, community impact, and social responsibility. He will report directly to President Monique Guillory and serve on her executive cabinet.

As Vice President, Dr. Hutchins will guide the development of a comprehensive advancement and communications strategy that deepens stakeholder engagement, expands philanthropic partnerships, and amplifies Dillard’s national profile. His leadership will play a central role in positioning Dillard for long-term growth and alignment with the university’s mission to cultivate leaders who live ethically, think and communicate precisely, and act courageously to make the world a better place. “Dr. Hutchins is an exceptional strategist who understands the soul of institutions,” said President Monique Guillory. “He brings both analytical precision and deep cultural awareness to his work. His ability to build trust, align teams, and communicate vision will be essential as Dillard moves into its next chapter.”

A nationally recognized scholar and practitioner, Dr. Hutchins has spent his career helping organizations understand and transform their cultures. Before joining Dillard, he served as Vice President of Social Impact & Culture for GMB Management LLC, the parent company of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, where he led organizational culture and community impact strategies across both teams. His leadership advanced equity-focused initiatives, charitable giving, employee engagement programs, supplier inclusion, and player-driven partnerships recognized nationally for their innovation and depth.

Continue reading the full announcement on the Dillard University website here.