University Development Announces Three Newcomers

COOKEVILLE (Aug. 19, 2003) — Two new faces and a familiar one give University Development a new look moving into this academic year. This summer, Randy Van Deven accepted the appointment as Director of the Major Giving Program, while two newcomers to development and the university, Amanda Godsey and Maryjane Webster, were hired as assistant development directors.

Van Deven came to TTU in 2000 as Development Director for the College of Engineering. His experience prepared him to direct the Major Giving Program when former director Elaine Kelsey left to become the Director of Development at Columbia State Community College.

Van Deven graduated from the University of Missouri-Rolla with a bachelor's in mining engineering. He is a registered professional mining engineer who spent the majority of his career in the civil engineering and mining industry throughout the Southeast. He has 16 years experience as a consulting engineer in the design and construct techniques.

"Our competitive edge reverts back to how good we are at friend raising and fundraising for the common cause of education excellence," he said. "We need to get the word out that there is a real need for private funding. We are already working to communicate better among ourselves so we can do a better job of communicating our needs to friends and alumni."

Godsey, a native of Harriman, graduated from TTU with a bachelor’s degree in multidisciplinary studies in 2001 and a master’s degree in instructional leadership in 2002.

As a graduate assistant for the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, she was responsible for motivating and training teachers in techniques and success.
With her experience in both education and sales, Godsey will focus on development efforts for the College of Education, the College of Agriculture and Human Ecology, Music and Art Department and the Craft Center.

Webster, a Cookeville native and graduate of Cookeville High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in economics with a minor in chemistry from TTU in 1997. Her extensive background in the healthcare field includes positions with Avega Health Management Systems in Nashville and El Segundo, Calif. She most recently worked as a regional sales representative for Mid-State Medical Oxygen and Equipment in Nashville.

As a former healthcare professional, Webster will give special support to the School of Nursing as well as serve as a liaison for the College of Arts and Sciences and the Honors Program. Webster is married to Travis Webster, who is employed by Averitt Express.

 
--Karen Lykins
This information posted 19 August 2003