KALAMAZOO, MI – Western Michigan University (WMU) and Western Michigan Athletics are excited to announce the appointment of Gina Gonzales as the new Senior Associate Athletic Director for Advancement & Engagement. In this role, Gonzales will be responsible for planning and managing development-focused programs to increase philanthropic support for the athletic department. She will oversee annual giving, priority seating, sport-specific giving, and major gifts.
Gonzales brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in athletic administration and fundraising to WMU and the athletic department. Most recently, she served as the Associate Athletic Director for Resource Development at Baylor University, where she played a pivotal role in achieving the two highest fundraising years in Baylor Athletics' history and increased annual cash donations by over 45%.
Throughout her career, Gonzales has demonstrated exceptional leadership in developing strategic visions to meet and exceed revenue goals. She spearheaded Baylor Athletics' capital campaign and was instrumental in creating fundraising strategies and seating policies for a new $212 million basketball pavilion, projected to increase ticket revenue by $2.5 million annually. Her innovative approach also resulted in establishing a new football premium area, adding $800,000 in annual donations.
"We are appreciative of the WMU Office of Advancement's commitment and partnership as we look to build upon what has been a record-setting two years of fundraising. We have lofty ambitions within athletics, and the strategy surrounding our engagement and philanthropic efforts is key to our success," said Dan Bartholomae, Vice President/Director of Athletics. "I am thrilled to welcome Gina to WMU Athletics in this new role overseeing our departmental advancement efforts. She has robust experience leading fundraising efforts at the highest level, and she was key in the fundraising effort and seating plan at the very impressive Foster Pavilion. We can't wait to introduce her to Bronco Nation."
At WMU, Gonzales will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day fundraising efforts of the athletic department. Her focus will be on creating and implementing development strategies to enhance donor engagement and support for WMU athletics. Her role will be crucial in driving the financial growth and sustainability of the department, ensuring that teams have the resources they need to succeed and further aid in the holistic development of the student-athletes.
"I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve Western Michigan University and the entire Western Michigan community. WMU has an unwavering commitment to academic and athletic excellence. I would like to thank both Dan Bartholomae and Erin Edwards for their support during this process and entrusting me with this role during such a critical time in college athletics," said Gonzales. "I am grateful to return to the Midwest for the chance to serve our student-athletes and steward our fan base at the highest level. I look forward to building meaningful relationships with WMU supporters and donors. I know together we can take Bronco Nation to new heights."
Gonzales holds a Master of Science in Administrative Studies/Sport Administration from Missouri State University and a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management/Business from Mount St. Joseph University. Her previous roles include Assistant Athletic Director for Development, Marketing, Communications & Operations at Baylor University, Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing and Fan Experience at Georgia Tech Athletic Association, and several other key positions at the University of Georgia Athletic Association, Drake University, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
