Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Late this fall, Daemen University appointed Dr. Mario Hicks, an accomplished fundraising professional with over a decade of experience in the field, as the new vice president for institutional advancement. In his role, Hicks oversees the university’s advancement program, which includes annual giving, alumni relations, leadership giving, and strategic data management.
“Dr. Hicks will be a valuable addition to our strong executive leadership team, and I look forward to working with him to further Daemen’s prominence as a college of national distinction,” said President Gary A. Olson. “He brings to this position strong ties to the Western New York community, as well as proven success in leading advancement efforts.”
Having most recently served as vice president for financial development at the YMCA Buffalo Niagara, Hicks has been successful throughout his career, having held leadership positions at Unyts, Buffalo State College, and Trocaire College. One reason for his success is his ability to connect people to projects.
“I really love philanthropy because I get to hear why people care, what they are interested in, and what their story is,” said Hicks. “I am excited about getting to know Daemen’s campus community.”
Hicks is a former student-athlete who came to Buffalo on a track scholarship and has been here ever since. A native of Corning, NY, he earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Buffalo State College, an MBA from the University of New Haven, and most recently completed a doctoral degree in business management from George Fox University.
What drew Hicks to his new leadership position at Daemen was the opportunity to serve at an institution that helps students reach their potential. As a father of two pre-teens (Miles, 10; and Aria, 12), as well as a college-age step-daughter, Amia, 19, Hicks knows the importance of education and community. In this capacity, Hicks will be an integral part of the leadership team at Daemen, helping members of this community continue doing what it does best – taking great ideas and bringing impactful projects to fruition.
“I love community and getting people together around great ideas,” said Hicks.
