John Amato

John Amato is a seasoned development professional with extensive experience in fundraising and strategic planning within the higher education sector. Currently serving as the Director of Development and Planned Giving at Drake University since November 2015, John provides leadership to the development team focusing on annual fund, major gifts, and planned giving initiatives. Previous roles include Associate Vice President of Strategy and Planning at Stamats Communications Inc., President of Amato Charitable Strategies, and Vice President for Development at Bethesda Lutheran Communities. John's career also encompasses significant positions at Des Moines University, UMKC, and the Iowa College Foundation, where substantial fundraising achievements were realized, including raising over $10 million for scholarships. Educated at Drake University with a Master of Public Administration and Rockford University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, John combines a strong academic background with practical expertise in advancement and fundraising strategies.