October 20, 2025 — Marist University is pleased to announce the appointment of Kirk Swenson as Vice President for Advancement, following a national search. Swenson joins Marist after more than five years as Vice Chancellor for Advancement at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. He brings a wealth of expertise in higher education advancement and a strong track record of leadership in fundraising, alumni engagement, and strategic development. 

At UNC Asheville, Swenson led the modernization of the university’s Advancement Office by bringing strategic vision and best practices. He guided the most successful period of fundraising in the institution’s history, securing multiple lead gifts and leading the launch of the University’s Centennial Campaign. Swenson played a central role in establishing the Gateway Scholars Program, advancing signature capital projects, and expanding community partnerships, including the nationally recognized Asheville Ideas Fest.

“Kirk will be a dynamic new addition to Marist’s leadership team and will help drive the vision and strategy for the University’s philanthropic efforts and alumni engagement,” said Marist President Dr. Kevin Weinman. “His arrival comes as we prepare to embark upon an extraordinarily ambitious comprehensive campaign that will be critical to helping fund many of the priorities in Marist 100 and supporting our students’ success. I’m eager for him to help us elevate Marist and more deeply engage our passionate alumni worldwide.”

In his new role, Swenson will oversee Marist’s advancement and alumni relations teams, leading efforts to strengthen philanthropic support, deepen alumni and donor relationships, and advance the University’s long-term strategic goals. Born and raised in the Hudson Valley, Swenson says he and his family look forward to joining the Marist community in person this January. He adds that he was drawn to Marist by the dedication of the University’s volunteers and leaders.

“I’m honored to be chosen to join Marist University at this defining moment in its history,” said Swenson. “The University’s values, leadership, and enduring sense of purpose create a powerful foundation for the future. I look forward to partnering with Marist’s leadership, alumni, and friends to expand opportunity, strengthen our mission, and ensure that the Marist experience continues to inspire generations to come.”

Before his time at Asheville, Swenson led the advancement team at Dickinson College in Pennsylvania, where he served as Vice President for College Advancement. His previous higher education experience includes roles at Cornell University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Rochester, and Ithaca College.

About the Office of Advancement
The Office of Advancement builds relationships and secures the philanthropic resources needed to move the University forward in service to its students and the world.

The Advancement team cultivates lifelong relationships with alumni, parents, trustees, friends, students, faculty, staff, and other key partners. Those relationships are strengthened through personal outreach, direct communications, volunteer opportunities, and signature events that inspire pride and encourage investment in Marist. These efforts strengthen annual support through the Marist Fund and gifts in support of the University’s strategic priorities.