Mercyhurst announces new vice president for advancement

Mercyhurst University announces the hire of Samuel McCrimmon, J.D., a 20-year veteran of successful advancement and management experience, as vice president for advancement, effective June 27.

McCrimmon comes to Mercyhurst from Le Moyne College, where he served as associate vice president of advancement and recently oversaw the $100 million Always Forward Campaign, the college’s largest- ever fundraising initiative, successfully completed during the pandemic.

Sam’s proven leadership in diverse philanthropy initiatives is admirable,” said Mercyhurst President Kathleen A. Getz, Ph.D. “His record of accomplishment in significant fundraising campaigns throughout his career will be critical in achieving the vision and mission of Mercyhurst University.” 

Previously, McCrimmon served as Le Moyne’s director of major gifts and advancement services from 2017-2020, and vice president for advancement at the University of Toledo from 2015-2016, where he led the integration of the first-ever Division of University Advancement and produced the highest fundraising total of $18.4 million in a non-campaign year. He also oversaw the management of more than 100 employees in fundraising, marketing, alumni relations, communications, and special events.

McCrimmon began his career as a development specialist for Wheeling Jesuit University. Other previous roles include executive director of clinical development (2011-2015) and major gifts officer (2011) at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and UPMC Health System, and executive director of major gifts (2010-2011) at the University of Detroit Mercy.

“I can’t wait to get to Erie and start serving Mercyhurst students and alumni,” McCrimmon said in accepting the position. “Under the leadership of President Getz and with the support of the Board of Trustees, I am happy to assist in achieving the next phase of growth for the University and the region. Carpe Diem!”

He earned a B.A. degree from Wabash College (Summa Cum Laude), Master of Theological Studies from Duke University (Summa Cum Laude), and Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. McCrimmon and wife Lisa have three children in a blended family, and are proud members of the Mercyhurst Leadership Giving Society.