University of Utah President Ruth V. Watkins has appointed Heidi Woodbury as the university’s new vice president for institutional advancement. Woodbury will assume the role on Feb. 1, 2019.

Woodbury currently is the assistant dean for external relations at the David Eccles School of Business. An alumna of the U, Woodbury was selected after a vigorous, competitive national search. She succeeds Fred Esplin, who is retiring.

“Heidi is trusted and respected by her colleagues,” Watkins said. “She is widely recognized for her collaborative, positive and team-building style, her remarkable ability to build long-standing relationships with external stakeholders, and her impressive work ethic.”

Woodbury began her career at the U as chief advancement officer for KUER-FM, the university’s public radio station. Woodbury joined the Eccles School in 1996, serving in various leadership roles before becoming assistant dean. As assistant dean, Woodbury has been responsible for guiding all aspects of the business school’s advancement efforts.

Under her leadership, financial support from private, foundation and industry donors has significantly increased; new academic centers and facilities have been built to meet the needs of students, faculty and our community’s business professionals; and alumni connections across the nation and world have flourished. Woodbury has guided numerous changes in the Eccles School, most notably technology and branding enhancements that promote its visibility and connection throughout the state.

“Heidi has brought her tremendous talent to the David Eccles School of Business for the past two decades. It was her incredible ability to build relationships and garner respect from some of the most notable families in Utah and beyond that has helped transform the Eccles School to what it is today,” said Taylor Randall, dean of the Eccles School. “I am sad to see her leave us, but I know the entire University of Utah community will benefit from her great passion and drive.”

Among other campus-wide roles, Woodbury serves on the Development Operations Committee, which recommends development standards and practices for the university.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the University of Utah as vice president for institutional advancement,” Woodbury said. “Fred Esplin has done an amazing job in this role and, because of his attention and dedication, I have a solid foundation to build on. I am excited to work with President Watkins and the leadership team in the years ahead as we strive to continue the university’s momentum.”