Averett University hires VP for philanthropy

Melissa Wohlstein joins the Danville university

Published February 17, 2021 by Sydney Lake

Melissa Wohlstein. Photo courtesy Averett University

Averett University announced Wednesday it has hired Melissa Wohlstein as vice president for philanthropy, effective Tuesday.

Wohlstein has nearly 20 years of experience in higher education settings. She most recently served as the associate vice president of development at Hollins University.

“With her existing connections to Virginia and her commitment to Averett’s mission, she will provide thoughtful and inspiring leadership as we embark on many bigger and bolder fundraising initiatives,” Averett University President Tiffany M. Franks said in a statement.

Wohlstein has also served as senior director of constituent relations for the College of Veterinarian Medicine at the University of Georgia, vice president for institutional advancement at Radford University, associate vice president for development and campaigns at Georgia Southern University and senior director of development and alumni affairs for the College of Health and Human Performance at the University of Florida.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in theater and English from the University of Alabama and her master’s degree in public administration from the University of Central Florida.