Morrison

accepts

UConn 

athletic

dept. post

By Ron P. Coderre

The University of Connecticut Foundation recently announced the naming of former Putnam resident Michael G. Morrison to the position of senior director of Development for Athletics.  The appointment was effective in August.

In his new position, Morrison is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding major gifts prospects.  Prior to his appointment, Morrison has been instrumental in key fund-raising roles for the soon to be opened UConn Basketball Champions Center, establishing new endowed scholarship funds, Major gifts solicitation and annual giving through the UConn Club.

“Mike Morrison has had a very successful tenure as a member of the staff here at the UConn Foundation and I am very excited that he is moving back to oversee our athletic development operation.  He is very familiar with this important area of our University, and has established relationships with many of our top donors,” said Foundation President and CEO Joshua Newton.

Morrison, a 2000 UConn graduate with a degree in political science and a master’s degree from the school of education in 2002, joined the UConn staff in July 2006 as an associate director of Athletics for Development.  He became the director of Major Gifts in September 2011.  He then served as the director of Development for Regional Giving from March 2012 until January 2014 when he was the assistant athletic director for Development.

As the senior director of Development for Athletics, Morrison will serve as the chief development officer for the UConn Division of Athletics.  His responsibilities also entail overseeing the operation and supervision of the Athletic Development staff.

“The return of Mike Morrison to the area of athletic development in the Division of Athletics is a natural fit.  Mike has a passion for our coaches and student athletes and has an excellent reputation within our donor base.  In addition, I believe that Mike has the enthusiasm and ability to increase that base, which is critically important to the future of our program,” said UConn Director of Athletics Warde Manuel.

Morrison is a graduate of Pomfret School where he played football for the Griffins.  In addition to his time at UConn, Morrison has also served in athletic fund-raising positions at Boston College, New Mexico and Rhode Island College.  He’s the son of Susan Morrison and the late Donald Morrison.