Dr. Marcus Ward, senior vice president of institutional advancement at Alcorn State University and executive director of the ASU Foundation Inc., was named the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Advancement Leader of the Year at the 15th HBCU Philanthropy Symposium in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.
“Dr. Marcus Ward’s recognition as the HBCU Advancement Leader of the Year is both commendable and well-deserved,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president of Alcorn State University. “We appreciate his dedication to excellence in the advancement profession and his unwavering commitment to advancing our University’s mission. Dr. Ward’s achievement shows the excellence in education and mentorship that Alcorn State delivers.”
Ward has secured more than $200 million in total funding, including private donations, state and federal appropriations, and grants, for higher education, nonprofits and government entities. He and his team have led a 450% growth rate from $9 million in 2009 to more than $50 million in assets and funds under management today. He has overseen the awarding of more than $5 million in scholarships and educational funding assistance to more than 3,500 students, and supported more than 100 faculty and staff with funding for research and professional development projects.
“I am deeply honored and grateful to receive the HBCU Advancement Leader of the Year Award at the 2025 HBCU Philanthropy Symposium,” said Ward. “I appreciate my colleagues for the recognition. From my experiences, I have found the symposium to be the premier convening for advancement professionals to collaborate and build relationships with corporate partners and philanthropy, strengthen professional development, and recharge to implement real-world solutions that make a difference at our institutions.”
Ward received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Alcorn State University, a master’s degree in public administration at Syracuse University, and a doctorate in higher education leadership from Maryville University of St. Louis.
“I extend special consideration to all the sponsors and staff for their steadfast investment and sustaining of The Symposium now in its 15th year,” said Ward. “I am also very thankful to Alcorn State University, President Tracy M. Cook, the Institutional Advancement team, and the ASU Foundation, Inc. for their unwavering support and providing opportunities for growth.”
According to its website, the HBCU Philanthropy Symposium serves as a stepping-stone to growth and philanthropic enrichment for consortia of HBCU and Minority Serving Institution fundraisers, funders, leaders, community advocates and philanthropists.
