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UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI PROSPECTUS | 1
Assistant Vice President, Advancement for
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Health System
University of Miami Miami, FL
https://welcome.miami.edu/
http://uhealthsystem.com/
http://sylvester.org/
Send Nominations or Cover Letter and Resume to:
Jill Lasman
Senior Vice President
617-262-1102
Introduction
As one of the nation’s top research universities, whose extraordinary momentum makes it one of the great
success stories in U.S. higher education, the University of Miami (UM) is on a trajectory of global greatness.
With more than 16,000 students from around the world, the University of Miami is focused on teaching and
learning, the discovery of new knowledge and
service to the South Florida region and beyond.
Integral to the University and a vital component of
its community, the University of Miami Health
System (UHealth) is South Florida’s only university
healthcare system. It delivers leading-edge patient
care by the region’s best doctors, powered by the
groundbreaking research and medical education
of the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine.
UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI PROSPECTUS | 2
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center (Sylvester) is the only university-based cancer center in South
Florida and serves as the hub for cancer-related research, diagnosis and treatment at UHealth. Located at
the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester has transformed cancer research and treatment beyond
its South Florida locale.
Under the leadership of Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., who joined the Cancer Center as director in 2012, Sylvester
was designated a Cancer Center of Excellence by the state of Florida in March 2015, one of only four in the
state. In addition, Dr. Nimer’s reputation as one of the world’s premier leukemia and stem cell transplant
researchers and clinicians has made Sylvester a magnet for the recruitment of international cancer scientists
who are leaders in their fields. Each individual contributes to the rich, interdisciplinary milieu of Sylvester’s
more than 130 cancer specialists and 115 cancer researchers, who collaborate with researchers from colleges
across the University of Miami and institutions around the world.
As Sylvester prepares to apply for NCI designation, it is committed to continuing to transform cancer care in
South Florida. By growing its reach, resources, partnerships and capacity for radical innovation, Sylvester is
bringing new hope to patients and making even greater strides toward a future that is cancer-free.
The Opportunity
The Assistant Vice President, Advancement for Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center (AVP) is an
opportunity to support world-class cancer research and cutting-edge patient care. S/He will partner with
energetic, visionary leadership, taking Sylvester’s philanthropic support to a new level. The successful
candidate will be a well-seasoned, metrics-driven fundraising leader and inspirational manager with an
affinity for Sylvester’s mission, especially as it translates into the community locally, nationally and
internationally.
The AVP will join the team as the University of Miami builds on the success of its last campaigns:
Momentum: The Campaign for the University of Miami, the University’s first billion-dollar fundraising effort,
surpassed its goal ahead of schedule and raised $1.4 billion in 2007. Momentum2: The Breakthrough
Campaign for the University of Miami reached its $1.6 billion goal in May 2015, one year ahead of schedule.
The University is currently in the silent phase of its next comprehensive campaign, Roadmap to Our New
Century, expected to conclude in May 2025, coinciding with the University’s centennial anniversary. Notably,
$1.2 billion of the campaign’s goal has been designated to support the University of Miami Health System,
and $400 million of that will be Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center’ campaign goal. Sylvester’s
Development Office is principal/major gifts focused and is comprised of a 22-member team. In the last three
years, Sylvester raised over $20 million each year; the goal for FY2018 is $25 million.
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Sylvester is recognized as one of the economic engines for the University, and a top campaign priority for
the Miller School of Medicine. The incoming AVP will work closely with leadership across the University to
engage key volunteers and principal gift donors in a growing operation with potential to generate $50-100
million within the next five years.
The Role of the Assistant Vice President, Advancement for Sylvester
Comprehensive Cancer Center
The Assistant Vice President, Advancement will function as a member of the senior executive team to
provide leadership for fundraising programs, and strategic planning and development of major gift needs
for Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. S/He will work with the associate vice president and the cancer
center director to develop and implement key fundraising strategies and guide the fundraising program and
staff overall.
Measurements of Success for Major Gift Fundraisers (DOs):
• Demonstrate significant and continuous progress toward campaign or multi-year project goals.
Dollar goals established with supervisor.
• Reach departmental yearly cash fundraising goals (team goal). Dollar goals established with
supervisor.
• Make an appropriate amount of substantive cultivation and solicitation actions toward closing
gifts. Numbers established with supervisor.
• Reach individual yearly goals for “number and amounts solicited” and “number and amounts
funded.” Reach additional goals acting as a collaborator. Number established with supervisor.
• Manage an appropriate number of active prospects and active proposals. Number and amounts to
be established with supervisor.
Responsibilities:
Among the administrative and operational responsibilities, the Assistant Vice President will:
• Serve as a member of the Medical Development management team and participate in the
development and implementation of departmental strategies, plans and activities for both campaign
and annual giving.
• Identify prospective donors and funding sources, in conjunction with faculty and staff, and develop
cultivation and solicitation plans, involving the aforementioned groups and volunteers, as
appropriate.
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• Ensure proper oversight of a cadre of volunteers whose purpose is to help identify, cultivate and
solicit other prospective donors, including, but not limited to, the Sylvester Board and The Pap
Corps.
• Ensure regular communications and stewardship with donors, including re-solicitations, proper
acknowledgement of gifts and pledge payments, reporting, visiting and providing regular
information on the progress of the department.
• Oversee management of the relationship with the Miami Dolphins Foundation in regards to the
Dolphins Cancer Challenge fundraising event. Manage support of the event, the use and stewardship
of donations.
• Oversee the management of Sylvester’s events.
• Oversee the assistance of donors, prospects and other select individuals with appointments,
scheduling and other necessary facilitation through clinical encounters at Sylvester.
• Prepare and maintain a master plan of funding priorities in conjunction with the leadership.
Determine fundable projects and package them appropriately for consideration by donors.
• Work with the associate vice president, the cancer center director and Medical Finance to develop
appropriate fundraising budgets and revenue projections for annual and campaign giving. Develop
and implement an annual work plan with measurable objectives and courses of action for all relevant
activities during the years.
• Make appropriate recommendations to administration, the director of Sylvester and appropriate
faculty concerning their roles and involvement in the identification, cultivation or solicitation of
donor prospects. Facilitate face-to-face interactions with appropriate donors and prospects.
• Maintain communications with colleagues in medical departments, other schools and central
development to ensure effective collaborations and synergy in achieving the University’s key
fundraising goals and objectives.
• Document all contacts, communications, visits and proposals in RE and other appropriate donor files.
• Manage a team consisting of an Executive Director and three Senior Directors of Development, each
of whom also manages a team, plus one support staff, for a total staff of 22 reporting to the
Assistant Vice President (numbers may change).
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree and 8 to 10 years of demonstrated successful experience in major gift fundraising and
fundraising management, preferably in higher education or healthcare. Outstanding oral and written
communication skills are necessary, along with the ability to be highly organized, creative, energetic and
assertive, and exhibit the independent judgment and personal integrity necessary to carry out a senior
management role in fundraising. A teamwork-oriented approach to colleagues and proven ability to
manage people in a positive and constructive environment are essential.
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Expectations for the Assistant Vice President:
ESTABLISH, BUILD AND MANAGE RELATIONSHIPS INTERNALLY AND EXTERNALLY
Working at one of the University’s highest profile and top revenue producing units, it is imperative that the
incoming AVP recognize the importance of collaboration, transparency and interdisciplinary partnerships
across the University campuses. The AVP will serve as a member of Sylvester’s executive leadership team,
while also making an impact as part of the Advancement Division’s UHealth senior team.
Because of Sylvester’s prominent donor base, and involvement of trustees with the Dolphins Cancer
Challenge, one of the Cancer Center’s most successful endeavors, the incoming AVP will have the
opportunity to work closely with University and volunteer leadership at the highest level. (For more on the
Dolphins Cancer Challenge click here.)
INSPIRE AND MENTOR A TALENTED AND GROWING TEAM
Sylvester has made a significant investment in adding both frontline and support service roles to its
advancement organization, further signifying leadership’s commitment to the Center’s existing philanthropic
potential. Org charts can be found in the Appendix of this document.
The ideal candidate brings keen operational sensibilities, along with a respectful, metrics-driven,
inspirational management style. The team is comprised of both seasoned development professionals, as well
as those newer to UM and the field. The AVP is expected to lead by example, while working closely with
team members on their individual annual goals and prospect management plans for their top donors.
MAINTAIN AN UPWARD FUNDRAISING TRAJECTORY TO ACHIEVE SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL
GROWTH
Working within the context of an ambitious comprehensive campaign at a unit well known for its clinical
care, research, faculty and distinction within the community, the incoming AVP has a unique opportunity to
grow and broaden a donor base serving a wealthy and grateful patient base, locally and regionally. Dr.
Nimer’s reputation nationally, especially in the New York City market, represents high-yield untapped
potential.
SERVE AS STRATEGIC THOUGHT PARTNER TO CANCER CENTER LEADERSHIP
Dr. Nimer is seeking a sophisticated, strategic and ambitious fundraising leader to serve as his primary
thought partner relating to principal gift prospects and fully leverage Sylvester’s entire array of assets.
The incoming AVP will be surrounded by individuals who are proud and passionate about the innovations
taking place at Sylvester and UM overall. S/He will find willing partners, especially among the Center’s
faculty members, who understand the important role philanthropy plays at an academic research university.
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University of Miami: Vision and Philanthropy
Led by President Julio Frenk, the University of Miami is a private research university comprising 11 schools
and colleges serving undergraduate and graduate students in more than 180 majors and programs. In
2018, U.S. News & World Report ranked UM #46 among the top national universities in the country in its
“Best Colleges” listings, the tenth year in a row it has been in the top 50. U.S. News & World Report also cited
several of its programs in “America’s Best Graduate Schools.” It continues to be the highest ranked school in
Florida.
As it approaches its second century, the University of Miami will build new bridges across geographic,
cultural and intellectual borders, bringing passion for scholarly excellence, a spirit of innovation, a respect
for including and elevating diverse voices, and a commitment to tackling the challenges facing the world. In
his inaugural address, President Frenk discussed the University of Miami’s course to realize its greatest
aspirations by its 100th anniversary. To read President Frenk’s Bio, please click: Julio Frenk
The Division of Development and Alumni Relations is a critical component in achieving President Frenk’s
vision. It is comprised of four departments (Development, Alumni Relations, Advancement Services and
Campaign and Donor Relations) and represents a total of approximately 267 employees responsible for
functions centrally and in the University’s 11 schools and colleges, as well as University Athletics and the
University Libraries. Of these, approximately 76 employees work at the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine
and in more than 30 medical departments.
Total cash giving in FY2017 was $221.1 million, the second highest fundraising year in the University of
Miami’s history, surpassed only by the record $236 million raised in FY2016. In the five years prior to FY2016,
the average was $192.6 million.
The University of Miami’s budget for 2016 - 2017 was $3.3 billion, with $2.3 billion projected for the medical
campus. At the end of FY2016 the endowment for the University was $844.6 million
University of Miami Health System: State-of-the-Art
The mission of the University of Miami Health System and the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine is to be
a state-of-the-art academic medical center. UHealth delivers high-quality, compassionate healthcare, leads
life-changing discoveries and transforms patient care through innovative research while educating the next
generation of medical leaders and promoting the health and wellbeing of its community. Within the
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UHealth system, patients can participate in clinical trials and benefit from the latest developments that are
fast-tracked from the laboratory to the bedside.
The Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine campus consists
of 72 acres within the 153-acre UM/Jackson Memorial
Hospital complex. The medical campus includes the
University of Miami Health System (UHealth), which is
comprised of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center,
Bascom Palmer Eye Institute (ranked #1 for 16 years by U.S.
News and World Report), and UHealth Tower, operating
within the University of Miami Hospital and Clinics (UMHC).
Affiliated hospitals include Jackson Memorial Hospital, Holtz
Children’s Hospital and the Miami Veteran’s Affairs Medical
Center. About three dozen UHealth outpatient clinics are
located in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Collier counties.
The University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine was founded in 1952 as the first medical
school in Florida. It is acclaimed nationally and internationally for research, patient care, education and
community service in the United States, South America and the Caribbean.
Leadership:
Edward Abraham, M.D.
Executive Vice President for Health Affairs
CEO, UHealth
Dean and Chief Academic Officer
Miller School of Medicine
Edward Abraham, M.D., is executive vice president for health affairs and CEO
of UHealth. He plays a leading role in the advancement of education,
research and patient care, and steers the School’s medical enterprise
through the rapid and profound changes reshaping healthcare delivery.
Dr. Abraham is an internationally renowned pulmonary medicine and critical
care physician and an accomplished scientist who has received
extensive NIH funding for more than 25 years. As an administrator, he has a proven record of
UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI PROSPECTUS | 8
accomplishment, breaking down silos and building teams, coupled with a savvy business acumen and
thoughtful decision making.
Please read Dr. Abraham’s full biography: Edward Abraham.
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center: One of the Elite
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center’s
commitment to ease the burden of cancer
began with a generous gift from Harcourt
Sylvester, Jr. in 1986. Since its inception,
Sylvester has made bold discoveries, built state-
of-the-art, patient-centered facilities and
acquired leading-edge technology, such as:
• MRI-guided radiation therapy, which
enables real-time visualization of tumors
as they are being treated;
• Robotic, high-intensity focused
ultrasound for minimally invasive treatment of prostate cancer;
• The launch of the Sylvester Pancreatic Cancer Research Institute and the Miller School of Medicine
Department of Interventional Radiology — the first department of its kind in the country;
• The increase of Sylvester’s National Cancer Institute (NCI) research portfolio and enrollment of more
than 8,000 participants in clinical trials since 2012;
• Since 2011, completion of more than 750 stem cell transplants;
• The establishment of groundbreaking programs with national impact on cancer epigenetics, tumor
biology and cancer control; and
• The recruitment of more than 100 top-tier physicians and researchers from national, leading cancer
centers.
Sylvester is among an elite group of 11 cancer research centers nationwide — and the only one in South
Florida — that achieve the best outcomes for cancer patients across a number of cancer types and disease
stages, according to a study by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York published in The
Journal of the American Medical Association. Cancer doctors and researchers at Sylvester discover, develop
and deliver more-targeted therapies leading to better outcomes, providing the next generation of cancer
clinical care — precision cancer medicine — to each patient. Its comprehensive diagnostics coupled with
teams of scientific and clinical experts who specialize in just one type of cancer; enable better understanding
UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI PROSPECTUS | 9
of each patient’s individual cancer and development of treatments that target the cells and genes driving
the cancer’s growth and survival.
Sylvester’s main inpatient and outpatient facility is on UM’s central medical campus in the heart of Miami. Its
physicians care for cancer patients at UMHC — University of Miami Hospital and Clinics, UHealth Tower,
Jackson Memorial Hospital, Holtz Children’s Hospital and the Miami VA Medical Center. Sylvester also
provides state-of-the-art cancer care at satellite facilities: Coral Gables, Deerfield Beach, Kendall Plantation,
Hollywood and Coral Springs.
Please click to learn more about accomplishments at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center: Sylvester.
Leadership:
Stephen D. Nimer, M.D.
Director
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Since 2012 Dr. Nimer has been professor of medicine, biochemistry &
molecular biology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and is
the director of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. In addition, he holds
the position of professor of pharmacology at Weill Medical College of Cornell
University and is a member of the consulting medical staff at The Rockefeller
University Hospital.
Dr. Nimer has worked as a hematologist/oncologist for the last 25 years,
focusing on the care of patients with hematologic cancers and with bone marrow that does not function
normally, such as patients with aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. He has led clinical
investigations of hematopoietic growth factors and immunosuppressive therapies to try to stimulate the
bone marrow of patients with these diseases, and of bone marrow or stem cell transplants (autologous and
allogeneic) to eradicate hematologic malignancies or cure bone marrow diseases. More recently, his lab has
used transcriptional modifying therapies like histone deacetylase inhibitors and hypomethylating agents to
treat these diseases, and this area of research remains a critical focus of their efforts.
While at Memorial Sloan Kettering, Dr. Nimer established the autologous stem cell transplant program for
hematologic malignancies. This program focused primarily on treating patients with lymphoma (both non-
Hodgkin and Hodgkin lymphoma) and patients with multiple myeloma. In addition to evaluating novel high-
dose therapies for these diseases, his lab established several research programs using investigational agents
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to target the molecular abnormalities found in myeloid malignancies like acute myelogenous leukemia
(AML).
Dr. Nimer’s research interests coincide with his clinical interests. His laboratory is investigating the molecular
defects that underlie the myeloid malignancies such as AML, myelodysplastic syndromes or
myeloproliferative neoplasms. His laboratory has cloned several genes involved in blood formation and has
extensively characterized the most common translocation (exchange of chromosomes) found in acute
leukemia, the t(8;21). More recently they have broadened their focus to understand how cancer cells resist
chemotherapy or radiation therapy. These studies have identified how novel aspects of the p53 pathways
are controlling cell death which may be targetable in the future. In 2001, his laboratory received one of two
awards given to U.S. investigators by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as a Specialized Center of
Research in myeloid malignancies. This award was renewed in 2006 for another five years. Dr. Nimer has
been funded by the NIH on a continuous basis for the past 25 years.
To meet Dr. Nimer, please view: Focusing on You.
Background Checks:
Prior to submitting your resume for this position, please read it over for accuracy. LLLS does verify academic
credentials for its candidates, and our clients frequently conduct background checks prior to finalizing an
offer.
UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI PROSPECTUS | 11
To learn more, call
Jill Lasman, Senior Vice President at
617-262-1102
or send nominations or cover letter and resume to
All inquiries will be held in confidence
Setting the Standard in Development Search
LOIS L. LINDAUER SEARCHES, LLC
420 Boylston Street, Suite 604, Boston, MA 02116
617.262.1102
www.LLLSearches.com
Organization Chart