Park University Names Ford as the New Associate Vice President for Progress and Development
Melissa Ford Appointed as Associate Vice President for Advancement at Park University
Melissa Ford, a seasoned fundraising professional with extensive experience in nonprofit advancement, has been appointed as the Associate Vice President for Advancement at Park University, effective from August 16, 2023.
Ford's role at Park University involves managing a variety of fundraising campaigns, including capital campaigns, major gifts, planned giving, and special events. These campaigns are designed to support the university's mission and goals.
Ford's career in fundraising and advancement spans over a decade, with significant leadership and event coordination roles. She has served as the director of philanthropic giving for the School of Science and Engineering at the University of Missouri - Kansas City from 2021. Prior to that, she held positions as a major gifts officer and donor relations manager for Girls Scouts of Northeast Kansas and Northwest Missouri.
Ford's fundraising expertise extends to political campaigns as well. She served as a campaign manager and fundraiser for the Missouri House of Representatives District 56 from 2013-15.
In the nonprofit sector, Ford has held notable positions such as the director of development for United WE and Musical Theater Heritage in Kansas City, Mo. She also served as the executive director and chief executive officer for the Greater Kansas City Chapter of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
Ford's involvement in the community is evident through her roles in various boards. She is a current member of the Kansas City Ballet Guild's Board of Directors and served as its president in 2022-23. She also served as the director of major gifts for the Kansas City Ballet.
Ford's active engagement in fundraising leadership and community impact initiatives is further demonstrated by her role as Event Co-Chair for the 2025 Philly Awards, a prominent event recognising achievements in nonprofit marketing, communications, and fundraising.
As AVP for advancement, Ford will be responsible for implementing various fundraising strategies at Park University. Her role involves planning, organizing, and implementing these strategies to support the university's mission and goals.
Melissa Ford's appointment as Associate Vice President for Advancement at Park University signifies a focus on education-and-self-development and career-development, as she will institute skills-training programs to equip students with the necessary fundraising skills. In her role, Ford will also oversee various campaigns designed to strengthen Park University's financial standing and further its mission and goals.
