Elwell named vice chancellor for development and alumni affairs

The University of South Carolina Aiken has named Daniel P. Elwell Sr., a senior fundraising executive with more than 20 years’ experience in higher education and non-profits, as its new vice chancellor for development and alumni affairs, effective July 28.

Elwell replaces Mary Driscoll upon her retirement and will lead the university’s efforts in building and strengthening relationships with alumni and other core constituencies, communicating the university’s value, and securing the resources necessary to advance the institution.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dan Elwell to USCA,” said USCA Chancellor Dan Heimmermann. “Dan’s proven leadership in fundraising and alumni engagement, combined with his deep passion for our mission, make him the perfect choice to advance our development efforts. I have full confidence that under his leadership, our alumni will deepen their connection to the university, and together, we will raise USCA to new heights.”

Elwell comes to USCA from The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, the largest YMCA association in New Jersey, where he has served as chief development officer since 2000. He led all aspects of the organization’s philanthropic development, including major gifts, annual campaigns, corporate and foundation relations, government relations, special events, planned giving, grants, board development, and development operations.

He has demonstrated success building highly engaged donor and community relationships, securing significant gifts, identifying next-generation leaders, driving robust fundraising initiatives, and organizational development. During his tenure at the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, the development team secured the largest gifts, grants, and fundraising totals in the organization’s 140-year history and led a successful capital campaign to support a new $42 million facility.

Elwell’s other previous positions include senior advancement roles at The Ohio State University, New Jersey City University, and the Rutgers University Foundation. In these roles, he consistently managed comprehensive external relations and development programs that exceeded annual fundraising goals.

“The mission of USCA, particularly its unwavering commitment to student achievement, resonates deeply with me,” Elwell said. “The university’s momentum and aspiration of our students and alumni is palpable. I am honored to lead the continued growth of the USCA’s development operations and contribute to advancing its bold vision for the future.”

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at [email protected].