Claflin University Names Willie Jude II as Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Following a national search, Claflin University has appointed Willie Jude II, M.Ed., as Vice President for Institutional Advancement beginning in July. A seasoned advancement executive and passionate advocate for education, Jude brings some twenty years of leadership experience in higher education and nonprofit development to his new role.

Jude will lead Claflin’s fundraising, alumni relations, and external engagement strategies as the university continues its remarkable legacy of philanthropic excellence. Claflin University has achieved the highest alumni-giving rate of any Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in the nation every year consecutively since 2000.

“We are delighted to welcome Willie Jude II to the Panther family,” said Claflin University President Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack. “He is a proven leader who brings exceptional energy, experience, and vision to our advancement enterprise. His deep understanding of educational equity, coupled with a strong record of fundraising success, will be invaluable as we advance Claflin’s mission of excellence and prepare for our next era of growth.”

Jude most recently served as Executive Director of the MPS Foundation, the nonprofit partner to Milwaukee Public Schools, the largest and most diverse school district in Wisconsin. During his tenure, he significantly increased total giving, expanded the donor base, and elevated the foundation’s visibility and community impact.

His previous leadership positions include advancement roles at Lincoln University (MO), Fisk University, and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. Known for his ability to build strong donor relationships and lead comprehensive fundraising campaigns, Jude is poised to enhance Claflin’s culture of philanthropy and amplify the university’s regional, national, and global presence.

“Thank you to President Warmack, the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, community, and alumni for entrusting me with this critical role and phenomenal opportunity,” said Jude. “Claflin University has a storied history, and it is my honor to serve as the next Vice President for Institutional Advancement. I am eager to foster a culture of philanthropy that reflects the University's values and ensures that our students and faculty have the resources they need to thrive.”

A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jude holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and a Master’s in Higher Education from Washington State University. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., the NAACP, and the alumni associations at both of his alma maters.

Jude is married to Dr. Joi N. Jude, also an educator, and they are the proud parents of three daughters.