BREAKING: UC Berkeley has just announced the appointment of Julie A. Lucas as the next vice chancellor for University Development and Alumni Relations, effective September 8, 2025. This critical role comes as the university seeks to enhance its philanthropic efforts and engage a wider alumni network.
Lucas brings nearly three decades of experience in higher education advancement, most recently as vice president of resource development at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). There, she led a remarkable $6.24 billion fundraising campaign that significantly boosted the institute’s capabilities in education and research.
This appointment is pivotal for UC Berkeley, as the university aims to build on its existing philanthropic momentum. Chancellor Rich Lyons expressed confidence in Lucas, stating, “Julie’s commitment to both bettering our world and driving successful campaigns is clear from her track record at MIT and elsewhere.”
Lucas’s extensive background includes senior roles at institutions like University of Southern California, New York University, and Fordham University. Each position saw her spearheading transformative fundraising initiatives that impacted campus life and expanded student opportunities.
With a focus on inclusive leadership, Lucas emphasized her commitment to creating an inspiring vision for the university. “Success is shared, because it takes the entire community to come together to achieve the university’s goals,” she remarked, highlighting her philosophy that aligns with UC Berkeley’s mission.
Lucas is set to succeed Julie Hooper, who led the university’s historic $7.37 billion Light the Way campaign over the past decade. The campus has been in transition since Leslie L. Schibsted stepped in as interim vice chancellor in February.
As the higher education landscape evolves, Lucas recognizes the increasing importance of engaging alumni and securing unrestricted contributions that can support critical research and teaching initiatives. Her strategic vision will be crucial in navigating these challenges as the university aims to maintain its position as a leader in education and innovation.
In her personal journey, Lucas has traveled to over 40 countries, and her experiences abroad have fueled her passion for cultural exploration and community engagement. She is dedicated to using her expertise to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and the broader community.
With her onboarding imminent, the UC Berkeley community eagerly anticipates the positive changes and innovative strategies that Lucas will bring to the institution. Stay tuned for more updates on her initiatives and the future of UC Berkeley’s development efforts.
