Christopher Delisio is ready to lead the Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Foundation’s philanthropic endeavors as the organization’s incoming chief executive officer. He also will serve as FAU’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement.
With more than 25 years of diverse development experience, Delisio will be responsible for the overall direction and management of community engagement, as well as all fundraising, development and alumni relations at FAU, providing strong leadership in identifying, cultivating and soliciting gifts to the institution. As CEO of the FAU Foundation, he will offer advice, counsel and leadership to the University’s fundraising organization, its staff and board of directors.
“Chris’ knowledge and experience at all levels of philanthropic development make him the perfect fit to lead the charge at FAU,” according to John Kelly, President of Florida Atlantic University. “He has a proven track record of leadership, creativity and stewardship, which is exactly what we need at FAU to elevate us to the next level of success.”
Delisio comes to FAU after eight years at The Ohio State University where he most recently served as the Assistant Vice President for Development and Executive Director of Principal Gifts. In this role, Delisio was responsible for assisting with the execution of a more than $500 million annual fundraising strategy, and providing comprehensive leadership and oversight of the principal gift operation – gifts of $5 million or more. He simultaneously oversaw the College of Arts and Sciences’ $400 million campaign.
“After a four-month national search led by a diverse search committee and coordinated by international executive firm Parker Executive Search, Chris was the unanimous choice following final interviews,” said Steven Schmidt, FAU Foundation Board Chair. “Chris has the experience, skill, and energy to take the FAU Foundation to the next level. Everyone on the Foundation Board looks forward to working with and helping Chris and the entire team achieve their goals.”
Prior to his time at Ohio State, Delisio held numerous development leadership positions in North Carolina and Ohio, including at the North Carolina Special Olympics; University of North Carolina Wilmington; University of Dayton; Ohio University; and Ohio Wesleyan University. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hiram College. He also serves or has served on numerous industry-related boards.
“The number of innovative experiences going on throughout the University is what drew me to this incredible opportunity,” said Delisio. “I am excited to join a remarkable team and lead the fundraising efforts at a dynamic public research university with increasing national prominence.”
