Miami Names Marks Assistant Athletic Director for Major Gifts

April 12, 2010

CORAL GABLES, FLA. –  University of Miami Director of Athletics Kirby Hocutt has announced the hiring of Jesse Marks as the Assistant Athletic Director for Major Gifts.

He returns to UM after serving as the Assistant Director of Development at Wake Forest and previously as the Assistant Athletic Director for Development at Florida International University.

“Jesse Marks has tremendous passion and enthusiasm for our University and Department of Athletics,” said Hocutt. “He has always shown unparalleled dedication and service to the donors he has worked with, and we are excited to welcome him back.”

A two-time graduate of the University of Miami, Marks earned a bachelors degree in political science and added a masters of education degree with an emphasis in sport administration while working as the Assistant Director of Development for Annual Giving from 2006-08.

In that capacity with the Hurricanes, he assisted in the identification, cultivation and solicitation of major gift prospects and donors, helping Miami exceed annual fund revenue goals each year. In addition, Marks increased annual giving at the highest membership levels by 28 percent.

Marks began working in Miami’s Development Office as a student and served as a Development Associate for two years before being promoted to Assistant Director.

“I am thrilled and honored to be back at my alma mater,” said Marks. “I have a deep affinity for The U and its athletics program. I am looking forward to building many great relationships with the university community to further provide our dedicated student-athletes with the best facilities and experience in collegiate athletics.”