Tom Wamsley

Tom Wamsley serves as senior vice president for Advancement at Virginia Tech, where he leads the university’s efforts to deepen alumni engagement, expand philanthropic support, and elevate its national reputation. Appointed in August 2025, Wamsley brings almost 30 years of experience in development and advancement, including 20 years in higher education.

Prior to joining Virginia Tech, Wamsley was vice chancellor for Advancement at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) and senior vice president at the University of Illinois Foundation. At UIC, he led the university’s most ambitious fundraising campaign, IGNITE, which closed at a record-breaking $803.4 million — 107 percent of its goal. Under his leadership, UIC secured the largest individual gifts in its history and expanded its advancement team significantly to support future campaigns.

Wamsley’s career also includes serving as chief development officer at the University of Michigan’s Stephen M. Ross School of Business, where his team raised $415 million during a university-wide campaign. He has held advancement roles at Wright State University, Antioch College, and the University of Dayton.

Known for his strategic vision and donor-centered approach, Wamsley emphasizes best-in-class stewardship, continuous improvement, and building empowered teams. His leadership style fosters innovation, professional growth, and a culture of excellence in advancement.

Wamsley holds a bachelor of arts in political science from Ohio University and an MBA from Wright State University. Outside of work, he is a competitive road cyclist and enjoys spending time with his wife, Libby — a former TV news anchor turned mystery author — and their three children.