Brentwood Academy's McFerran to lead community philanthropy program for university
Kim Chaudoin |
Mark McFerran, an expert in leading fundraising initiatives and external affairs programs in the education field, has been appointed associate vice president in Lipscomb University’s Office of Development and Alumni Relations.
In his role McFerran will seek to identify those in the Nashville community who have a passion for Christian education and will be a key leader in the development and implementation of fundraising strategies. He will also build relationships with the local philanthropic community to bring an awareness of the unique benefits of Christian education and build new support for the university’s mission, facilities, and endowment.
“Mark has an enormous passion for Lipscomb’s mission as well as vast experience in developing successful fundraising programs for one of the premier private secondary schools in Middle Tennessee. He will help build relationships with those who see the unique potential in Christian higher education and want to support it in impactful and meaningful ways,” said Lipscomb president L. Randolph Lowry.
McFerran brings with him more than 25 years’ experience in development. He joined the Brentwood Academy staff in 1995 as the chief development officer. For the last 17 years, McFerran has served Brentwood Academy as the chief fundraising officer, and has led the efforts of three capital building projects, annual funds, special events and planned giving projects in excess of $40 million. Additionally, while at Brentwood Academy, McFerran has executed several special recognition events and anniversary celebrations including the transition from the founding headmaster to the second leader in the school’s 42-year history.
“I have watched Lipscomb University emerge in the last few years and have been impressed with what is happening there,” said McFerran. “I’ve had the privilege of being at Christ-centered organizations my entire career and I look forward to being a part of the exciting growth that is taking place at Lipscomb.”
McFerran said he enjoys building relationships and helping connect people with a need and having them respond to it.
“Mark’s commitment to faith-centered organizations and advancing Christian education is exciting. He brings an experience that will enhance our development program as we look toward the university’s 125th anniversary in 2016,” said Bennie Harris, vice president for development and alumni relations.
Prior to his tenure at Brentwood Academy, McFerran worked with youth at a church in his southern California hometown and served in various fundraising, marketing, event management and hospitality roles for Focus on the Family, an international pro-family organization, and for International Christian Aid, a world-relief humanitarian organization.
McFerran is involved in a variety of community organizations including the Brentwood Rotary Club and the Association of Fundraising Professionals. He is a graduate of the 2000 Leadership Brentwood class and is a current board member and executive committee member with the Brentwood Cool Springs Chamber of Commerce. He is also a member of the Nashville Symphony Council and a part of the I Am Second leadership team.
McFerran has a Bachelor of Science degree in Christian education from Biola University. He and his wife, Melody, have a son, Taylor, and a daughter, Mikayla.