North Carolina Central University is pleased to announce that LaTanya D. Afolayan has been appointed vice chancellor for Institutional Advancement, effective June 1, 2009.  Most recently, Afolayan has served as vice chancellor for development at Elizabeth City State University. 

At Elizabeth City, she also served as director of major and planned gifts, and associate vice chancellor for development. Afolayan began her career in development at Emory University where she served as the assistant director of Corporate Relations.

Drawing on this significant background and experience, Afolayan has concluded that, “Fundraising is not just about getting a check but rather, building relationships over the long term and finding a way to incorporate everyone into the fabric of the university.”

She values listening above all as she works to match the passions and interests of alumni, friends, and corporations to the needs of the institution.  She intends to heighten NCCU’s visibility, enhance its strategic partnerships, and ultimately increase private fundraising to help compensate for diminishing state support.

“Development professionals have to establish enduring relationships, often extending beyond our own lifetimes,” said Afolayan.

As a senior advancement officer in the University of North Carolina system, Afolayan is already acquainted with staff at the Division of Institutional Advancement at NCCU.  She said, “I’ve had the chance to observe a number of individuals in the development office and I’ve been impressed with their passion for the university and its mission.  I’m excited about working with them.”

Afolayan earned the bachelor of science degree at Indiana State University and a master of arts from the University of Missouri.  She is currently pursuing the Ed. D. in higher education at East Carolina University.