UNCP Gets A New Director for Corporate & Foundation Relations

Amber F. Rach was recently named director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke.

Ms. Rach will write foundation grants and corporate solicitations that articulate key messages and value of the university's programs. "I am looking forward to team with UNCP's deans, faculty and staff interested in establishing or enhancing their corporate and foundation relationships," she said.

Ms. Rach is an experienced fundraiser and served in the Office of Leadership and Principal Gifts at Johns Hopkins University, where she worked with large gifts. She also worked as a development research analyst for their Department of Development and Alumni Relations.

Ms. Rach reports to Thomas Giffin, Director of Development in the Office of Advancement.

"UNCP has placed an emphasis on hiring quality individuals that can add to the university's scope of expertise," Mr. Giffin said. "Amber's experience at Hopkins, the nation's leading research institution and one that is currently undertaking the sixth largest capital fund raising campaign in the country, certainly makes her a valuable component in our efforts to constantly improve the educational experience for our diverse student population, and UNCP's expanding advancement program."

Ms. Rach said UNCP's status as the fastest growing university in North Carolina is energizing. "I am very excited to work with a growing and progressive university," she said. "Change brought on by growth is very stimulating."

"At UNCP, I will be developing new prospects and renewing relationships with ongoing friends of the university," she said. "Contributions from foundations and corporations form partnerships that are vital for the health of the university and its community."

Ms. Rach worked as a development consultant, researching new and current prospects and assisting in grant writing, for UNCP during the past nine months before assuming her new role. She also served as the Executive Director of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra, where she led the Board of Directors in fundraising, marketing and long-range planning activities.

A Virginia native, Ms. Rach moved to North Carolina with her husband, Christopher, who serves as choral director at Hoke High School and Minister of Music at Culbreth United Methodist Church in Fayetteville. Both have an interest in music.

Ms. Rach is certified in flute performance and piano accompaniment; her husband, a trumpeter and organist. The Rachs have performed with the Wilmington and Fayetteville Symphony Orchestras and throughout the region.

Ms. Rach received a Bachelor of Science in Arts Management from Shenandoah University and is currently enrolled in UNCP's Master of Public Administration program.

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