Jay Wilson
Vice President University Advancement
Since 2018, Wilson has spearheaded the raising of more than $208 million in gifts while leading development teams at two major public research universities, including the University of South Dakota, where he served as President and CEO of the school’s foundation, and the University of Missouri – Kansas City (UMKC), where he was Assistant Vice-President and Interim President of the institution’s foundation (2018-2022). Serving as a cabinet member at both institutions, Wilson was particularly successful in athletics fundraising, leading a 1,000% increase in UMKC athletics fundraising during a period of conference transition. Past experience also includes serving in development positions with UMKC Health Sciences, UMKC School of Medicine, Park University and the Kansas City Sports Commission.
Wilson is a graduate of Park University, where he received his Master of Public Administration in Public Policy, and the University of Central Missouri, earning a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. A U.S. Navy veteran and native of Sedalia, Missouri, Wilson and his partner Natalie are the proud parents of four children: Wyatt, Hayden, Gemma and Jordyn.