PORTLAND, Ore. – After an extensive, nationwide search, the Portland State University Foundation Board of Trustees has selected Dr. William G. Boldt to be the foundation’s new president and CEO. Boldt, who is currently vice president of university advancement at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, will direct a staff of more than 70 at a time of historic private giving to PSU.
“Bill’s experience in every phase of university fundraising makes him a perfect match for the PSU Foundation,” said Mark Rosenbaum, chair of the foundation’s board of trustees. “His leadership skills will be a great asset for the entire university.”
Boldt has a 20-year-plus career in successful higher education fundraising. He has served in senior leadership positions for fundraising at the University of California, Riverside and California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He also has a deep background in Oregon, with three degrees from the University of Oregon and a five-year stint working at the Oregon State University Extension Service.
At the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Boldt oversees the UNLV Foundation, alumni and community relations, university communications and media relations. Under his leadership, UNLV completed a $537 million comprehensive campaign, nearly doubled its endowment to $245 million and raised $74.8 million last year.
“This is an exciting new chapter for the PSU Foundation,” said Portland State President Wim Wiewel. “Bill will be a great addition to the PSU community.”
Boldt looks forward to returning to the Pacific Northwest. He will begin his new role effective July 1, 2016. He follows Tom Bull, the executive director of the PSU Alumni Association, who has served as the interim president and CEO of the PSU Foundation.
“I’m eager to join Portland State University during an era of great momentum and growth and with a tremendously dedicated board and president,” Boldt said. “PSU’s unique reputation for academic excellence, sustainability and community engagement is well-known across the country. I am also thrilled for the opportunity to work with such a strong and dedicated president and board.”
The PSU Foundation raised more than $46 million in 2015, an increase of 18 percent from 2014 and nearly $31 million more than what was raised in 2011. Private giving to PSU supports academic programs, research, scholarships, faculty and staff and capital projects.
About the Portland State University Foundation
The PSU Foundation is a private, 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to support Portland State University. Created in 1963, the PSU Foundation raises private gifts, invests them responsibly, and stewards them in accordance with donors’ wishes. For more about the PSU Foundation, please visit www.psuf.org.