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James Wasilewski, MBA, CFRE Executive Director of Leadership Annual Giving Virginia Commonwealth University | Primary Giving
James has spent more than 20 years in higher education advancement, serving in fundraising, constituent engagement, and student recruitment roles. He currently serves as Executive Director of Leadership Primary Giving within VCU’s Development and Alumni Relations, where he leads focused fundraising efforts and engages in leadership development and fundraising training initiatives. During his tenure at VCU, he has also held roles supporting the Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.
In addition to his advancement leadership work, James facilitates workshops and coaching engagements grounded in his professional fundraising experience and more than 20 years in improvisational comedy. He coaches fundraisers in prospecting, donor strategy and meaningful engagement, and leads sessions on storytelling, making the ask, emotionally intelligent fundraising and creating a culture of philanthropy. Drawing on applied improv concepts, he uses interactive exercises to spark discovery, encourage exploration and deepen participant engagement.
James also designs and facilitates people development workshops focused on leadership, creativity, teamwork and communication - helping individuals and teams build confidence, adaptability and stronger connections through experiential learning.
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