Susan K. Feagin, Harvard's second-ranking development officer, has announced plans to leave Harvard in favor of the University of Michigan, raising questions about the future of Harvard's $2.1 billion Capital Campaign.
Michigan's Board of Regents approved Feagin for her new post at its meeting last Friday.
Feagin will take over the position on May 4 of this year, leaving her current job as Harvard's director of development.
Feagin, described by colleagues as "highly effective," leaves Harvard with $500 million remaining to be raised in the $2.1 billion campaign.
More than 75 percent of the campaign's target goal has been raised thus far, and development officials say the drive is ahead of schedule.
Feagin has played an integral role in the success of the fundraising drive, according to Thomas M. Reardon, vice president of development.
"She's been phenomenally effective," Reardon said.
Reardon said Feagin's departure is "a big loss," but he insisted the campaign will not be hindered by Feagin's leaving.
"The campaign has a very strong staff, as well as support from the University's leadership," Reardon said. "In that sense we're in a strong position."
Feagin is one of four "key players" in development operations, said Bailey F. Mason '51, a retired director of corporate foundation relations for Harvard.
"She would be difficult to replace," he said. "There's always a jolt when a key player leaves, but we hope that won't last very long."
"I'm not saying it won't have an impact, but the organization will be able to pick up where she left off," he continued.
Feagin's departure would have less of an impact on the current campaign than on future endeavors, said a high-ranking Mass. Hall source.
"I thought she had an important future here at Harvard for the next campaign. That's a disappointment," said the source.
"I wish it weren't happening. I would Dean of the Faculty Jeremy R. Knowles said thecampaign will continue on course without Feagin. Read more in NewsRecommended Articles
