Sharon Saunders

The Vice President for Advancement and University Relations is responsible to the President for the administration, operation, and direction of the University’s fundraising program and works with the President, Trustees, volunteers, as well as academic and administrative leadership to frame appropriate strategies and implement fundraising initiatives. The Vice President for Advancement and University Relations provides overall leadership for the alumni association, as well as areas including church relations, University Events, and Conferences. The Vice President for Advancement and University Relations also serves as executive director of The Guild, an organization of more than three hundred Christian women dedicated to the support of the University President and Houston Baptist University. This person also oversees the American Museum Society, an organization committed to supporting the HBU Museum of American Architecture and Decorative Arts. All projects of affinity organizations and advisory councils are coordinated with this office, including event planning, fundraising, and special projects. In addition, the Vice President for Advancement and University Relations serves as a member of the President’s Executive Council leadership team, numerous institutional committees, and community-related advisory boards and councils. The Vice President for Advancement and University Relations represents the President with a number of public, community friends, and organizations and serves as the liaison for the President on special projects and event planning.