Jim Harris guides UMD’s efforts to advance its mission through philanthropy and engagement, overseeing a team comprising annual, major, principal and planned gifts; alumni and donor relations; and the financial management and operations of the division and UMCP Foundation.

His previous position as associate vice president for university development included leading the day-to-day fundraising of the development operation including 16 colleges and units, and central areas including Annual Giving, Leadership Annual Giving, Regional Development, Office of Gift Planning, Parent and Family Philanthropy, Prospect Research and Management, Donor Relations and Stewardship, and Corporate Engagement and Foundation Relations.

Prior to arriving in College Park in May 2019, Harris served at the University of Louisiana for four years as executive director of its foundation and Office of Advancement. Previous positions include associate vice president for the University of South Florida Foundation and senior director of development at Ohio University for four years. His career began at his alma mater, Indiana University, where he worked for nearly six years as the director of development for major gifts in athletics.