B.J. Hull named chief development officer at Purdue Fort Wayne

Purdue University Fort Wayne has selected William “B.J.” Hull to become its chief development officer. He brings with him to PFW 15 years of advancement and development experience in higher education.

Most recently, Hull served as vice chancellor of university advancement at the University of Michigan–Flint. There he was tasked with, among multiple responsibilities, analyzing and rebuilding the functions of a 28-person unit responsible for major giving, annual giving, and alumni engagement. 

“B.J. Hull is joining our university at a time when we are poised to put into motion many of our visions for the future,” said Chancellor Ron Elsenbaumer. “His unique experiences serving universities and colleges of varying sizes are a true asset to what Purdue Fort Wayne is today and what we intend to become. We welcome B.J. and look forward to him getting out into the community to meet the people who make our region special.”

Prior to his time in Flint, Hull spent nine years as vice president for advancement at Olivet College in Olivet, Michigan. His leadership roles in higher education have also included positions at Michigan State University in East Lansing.

Before his transition to academia, Hull served for five years as the director of development for the Lansing Symphony Orchestra and as a division director for the Greater Michigan Chapter of the March of Dimes.

“When I first became aware of this opportunity, I was impressed by everything Purdue Fort Wayne has accomplished and was drawn to the many opportunities the university has to further enhance the experience for students, faculty, and staff through renewed engagement with the greater Fort Wayne community,” Hull said. “We have plenty of projects to tackle moving forward, and the development and alumni team is excited to create and boost those key relationships to deliver the funding necessary to continue the growth and improvements across this amazing campus.”

In his position, Hull will provide leadership and counsel for the Office of Development, the Mastodon Alumni Community, and the Purdue Fort Wayne Foundation. 

Hull earned an MBA, with honors, from Michigan State and a bachelor’s degree in English from Alma College in Alma, Michigan.