14 Oct 2016 UCA names development directors

Three University of Central Arkansas alumni were hired to join the Division of Advancement as directors of Development. Aimee Poynter ’15 and Maegan Dyson ’06, ’10 began duties on Oct. 3. JD Gray ’15 began Oct. 17.

As directors of development, each person will have unique duties that will ultimately contribute to team efforts to raise private support for the institution.

Poynter, director of development for the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, will focus fundraising efforts on alumni and friends of that college.

“I can’t wait to share the excitement of UCA’s growth with its alumni and friends,” Poynter said. “Between the expansion of Greek Village, Conway Corporation Center for the Sciences and Donaghey Hall, it is an exciting time to be involved with UCA.”

Poynter comes to Advancement from the American Cancer Society, where she acted as the community manager for Central Arkansas, developing income as well as engaging volunteers in the organization’s mission.

Poynter graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a bachelor of science degree in public relations.

Dyson acts as a general director of development and will be working with key prospects for major gifts, parent giving and planned giving. While new to the Division of Advancement, Dyson is no stranger to UCA.

Dyson spent the last six years as a development associate for athletics, working with the athletics annual fund, Purple Circle and special stewardship events. A cheerleader during her undergraduate time at UCA, Dyson has also spent her time since graduation heavily involved with the cheer team in various capacities, including spirit coordinator since 2008.

Dyson said, “Being in athletics the past six years has been a great experience, but I am excited about moving to Advancement where I can help raise funds that will impact the institution as a whole.”

Dyson earned two degrees from UCA: a bachelor of business administration and a master of business administration.

JD Gray, director of development for the College of Business, will focus primarily on working with alumni and friends of the college for contributions. Gray comes to UCA from Central Baptist College where he held the position of director of development.

Gray holds a master of science degree in college student personnel administration from UCA, as well as a bachelor of business administration degree from Arkansas Tech University.

“I’m pleased to return to my alma mater and join the Advancement team at UCA,” said Gray. “Joycelin [Randle] and Kale [Gober] have assembled a top-notch team, and I am excited to be a part of it.”

Executive Director of Development Joycelin Randle said, “We are thrilled to have these development officers join our team. I am confident that they will work tirelessly to advance UCA’s mission.”