178: Mark Delos Reyes Davis, UC Santa Cruz

What this episode covers

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Mark Delos Reyes Davis, Vice Chancellor for University Relations at University of California, Santa Cruz and President of the UC Santa Cruz Foundation. Mark reflects on the the twists and turns of a fundraising career that has led him to some of the country’s highest-performing fundraising shops, including Rice, Hawaii Pacific, and Carnegie Mellon. He shares how his experience as a first-generation college graduate, his years as a Presidential Chief of Staff, and his time as marketing lead for capital campaigns have influenced his perspective and approach to leadership today. Mark also covers the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion – acknowledging that while the advancement industry has made strides in the realm of DEIB&J, there is still a long way to go towards building teams, closing gifts, and cultivating relationships that support and represent the diverse communities we serve. When asked how he feels about ultimately landing in sunny Santa Cruz, Mark says, "UC Santa Cruz is the most beautiful campus in the country. Who wouldn't want to be a Slug? It's one of very few institutions (as an AAU, HSI, and AANAPISI) that is equally committed to leading research and educational access." Tune in!