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Development office names A.L.L., Annual Fund directors

Chris Pepple | 

The Lipscomb University Office of Development has hired Laura Sears as director of the Association Ladies for Lipscomb (A.L.L.) and promoted Sonja Hayes as director of the annual giving and special programs, Bennie Harris, vice president of development, recently announced.

“We are very excited about both of these additions to our staff. Laura brings to Lipscomb a wealth of experience that will benefit A.L.L. She has donated many volunteer hours to the organization. Her energy and creativity are welcome as we continue to grow A.L.L. Sonja has an exceptional background in corporate relations through sales, foundation relations and other areas. She has already had the opportunity to work with the development area and with the annual fund programs during her time with our office,” said Harris.

Sears began her volunteer work with A.L.L. in 1998 when she served as vice president for the organization. From 2002 through 2004 she served as president and has helped coordinate many of the organization's events. Her professional experience includes work with the Martin Foundation and serving as project manager for Corporate Family Solutions. She has also volunteered with David Lipscomb Campus School. Sears received a bachelor of arts in communication and public relations from Lipscomb University.

“My major and my work experiences have helped prepare me for this type of opportunity. Having been a volunteer with A.L.L. for several years has enabled me to learn about how it works and will assist me in planning for the organization and making important contacts in the business community and among Lipscomb alumni,” said Sears.

Hayes joined the Lipscomb staff in 2007 as the executive assistant for the vice president of development. Her previous experience includes work with Dell, Inc.; Misys Healthcare Systems and SunTrust Bank. She received her bachelor of business administration from Middle Tennessee State University and an M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix.

“I am excited about being in this position because I see this position as the primary source for bringing in new donors to Lipscomb, as well as retaining those donors that are already committed to supporting the university. My primary goal for the area of annual giving is to work hard in getting those first gifts and then provide compelling reasons for future, increasing gifts,” said Hayes.