DECATUR, Ill. – Millikin University’s Vice President for Alumni & Development, Gina Bianchi, has announced her retirement plans effective September 30, 2024.
As a proud alumna from the Millikin Class of 1993, Gina has been a vital member of Millikin’s community, serving as Vice President since July 1, 2018, and guiding Millikin’s fundraising and alumni relations efforts.
Until her retirement, Gina will focus on current fundraising priorities and transitioning her relationships with alumni and friends of the University. Dr. Sarah Kottich, Millikin’s Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, will serve as the interim leader of the Alumni & Development team. A search for a permanent Vice President for Alumni & Development will begin once the Presidential Search is concluded.
“Gina’s journey with Millikin has been long and impactful. Throughout her tenure, Gina has been instrumental in advancing our fundraising efforts, fostering a spirit of philanthropy, and building enduring relationships with our alumni and friends. Her leadership has been characterized by a deep commitment to Millikin’s mission, contributing significantly to our institution’s success and growth,” Millikin President Jim Reynolds said. “Please join me in extending our deepest gratitude to Gina for her years of service, dedication, and unwavering support of Millikin University. We will greatly miss her passion and commitment but are excited for her as she embarks on this next chapter of her life.”
Bianchi began her Millikin career as Senior Director of Alumni and Donor Engagement in 2013. She became the Associate Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Alumni and Development in 2017 before taking on her current role as Vice President.
Her notable achievements include our scholarship fundraising initiatives, the $2 million Workman Family Softball Field and $4 million Workman Family Baseball Field, the $12.3 million David J. and Debbie C. Rathje Athletic Center, $3 million Health Sciences Center including the Campbell Family Nursing Simulation Center, and playing a pivotal role in the success of the Transform MU Capital Campaign through her leadership and strategic collaboration.
In 2021, Bianchi created the Gina L. Bianchi Scholarship, an endowed scholarship awarded to students with demonstrated financial need, majoring in Communication, with a preference to transfer students and/or students with a sophomore-level or above status. Please consider making a gift to this scholarship, or the Annual Scholarship Fund to honor Bianchi for her service to Millikin.