Wilfrid Laurier University appoints new AVP: development

June 29, 2021

Wilfrid Laurier University has appointed Ann Brandt assistant vice-president: development, beginning Sept. 3, 2021.

Brandt brings to Laurier more than 20 years of experience in development and external relations within the post-secondary sector, including her time as director: development at Laurier’s Brantford campus from June 2015 to November 2017. During her time at Laurier, Brandt was instrumental in securing funding for the Laurier YMCA Athletic Complex Capital Campaign. Under her leadership, $5.5 million was raised in support of student athletics and wellness.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ann back to the Laurier family,” says Jason Coolman, vice-president: advancement and external relations. “Through her long career in advancement, Ann has been a connector and a leader, working with passion and precision to build relationships, integrate and improve systems, and achieve goals. Her drive for student success and community impact shows up in everything she does. I am personally looking forward to working closely with her in the development of a comprehensive fundraising plan for Laurier.”

Brandt comes back to Laurier from Lakehead University, where she currently serves as associate vice-president. From January 2020 until May 2021 Ann served as interim vice-president: external relations. As such, she will bring a wealth of experience to Laurier’s combined advancement and external relations team.

In addition to her role as director: development at Laurier, Brandt also served as Laurier’s associate director: development and alumni relations from May 2011 to June 2015.

She has also worked in development at the University of Waterloo and McMaster University, as well as in stewardship at the Oakville Hospital Foundation.

Brant has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Waterloo and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations from the Humber College of Applied Arts and Technology.

Brandt’s extensive experience in development, stewardship and external relations, her passion for community, her proven track record in successful campaigns, and her familiarity with Laurier’s systems and values will make her an incredible addition to the Advancement and External Relations team, and the wider university community.