Eastern Michigan Athletics
Nietrzeba Promoted to Associate AD for Development
11/6/2024 3:00:00 PM | General
The Erie, Mich. native has dedicated nearly 20 years to EMU
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) — Eastern Michigan University Vice President and Director of Athletics Scott Wetherbee announced the promotion of Jessica Nietrzeba to Associate Athletic Director for Development today, Nov. 6. Having previously served as the Assistant Athletic Director for Development, Nietrzeba has nearly two decades of experience at EMU and a long-standing dedication to building meaningful relationships with alumni and donors.
"Jessica is a remarkable leader who truly understands our donors and our mission," said Wetherbee. "She has been an invaluable part of our University community for many years, and we're thrilled to see her take charge of her own team. We look forward to continuing to break fundraising records under her leadership."
Nietrzeba's journey with EMU began in 2006 as an undergraduate intern, culminating in her Master of Science in Sports Management in 2008. Her career has since spanned multiple roles within the university, notably with Alumni Relations, where she deepened ties with EMU's alumni and donor community. As Assistant Athletic Director for Development, Nietrzeba was instrumental in initiatives like the successful Ben Braun Court naming and a range of impactful fundraising projects for EMU Athletics.
"I'm incredibly honored to step into the role of Associate AD for Development at EMU. This is a pivotal time to build on the momentum we've created and continue driving forward the success of our fundraising efforts. Our donors, alumni, and community have been instrumental in elevating EMU Athletics, and I'm excited to work alongside them to push our program to new heights. Together, we can create lasting impacts for our student-athletes and ensure that EMU remains a leader in both academics and athletics. I would also like to show my gratitude and thank VP Wetherbee and VP for Advancement Maher Salah for this wonderful opportunity! I'm very excited and can't wait to get started."
EMU Athletics broke another all-time fundraising record in fiscal year 2024 (July 1, 2023-June 30, 2024), building momentum in a multi-year trend of raising the bar in development. The department secured more than $14.5 million in pledges and commitments through the unwavering generosity of alumni, fans, and friends, marking the highest total in the Department's history. This milestone surpasses the previous record of $9.8 million, set in Fiscal Year 2020. Contributions were made to various areas, including the Eastern Athletic Fund, sport-specific crowdfunding initiatives, capital projects, and legacy giving, all of which are crucial in supporting the 500+ student-athletes who proudly represent the Green and White.
Landmark contributions have been essential to the ongoing success of EMU Athletics, helping to provide state-of-the-art facilities and resources that benefit current and future student-athletes. Since Wetherbee arrived in Ypsilanti in 2017-18, Eastern Michigan has brought in more than $36 million in cash and pledges.
"Jessica is a remarkable leader who truly understands our donors and our mission," said Wetherbee. "She has been an invaluable part of our University community for many years, and we're thrilled to see her take charge of her own team. We look forward to continuing to break fundraising records under her leadership."
Nietrzeba's journey with EMU began in 2006 as an undergraduate intern, culminating in her Master of Science in Sports Management in 2008. Her career has since spanned multiple roles within the university, notably with Alumni Relations, where she deepened ties with EMU's alumni and donor community. As Assistant Athletic Director for Development, Nietrzeba was instrumental in initiatives like the successful Ben Braun Court naming and a range of impactful fundraising projects for EMU Athletics.
"I'm incredibly honored to step into the role of Associate AD for Development at EMU. This is a pivotal time to build on the momentum we've created and continue driving forward the success of our fundraising efforts. Our donors, alumni, and community have been instrumental in elevating EMU Athletics, and I'm excited to work alongside them to push our program to new heights. Together, we can create lasting impacts for our student-athletes and ensure that EMU remains a leader in both academics and athletics. I would also like to show my gratitude and thank VP Wetherbee and VP for Advancement Maher Salah for this wonderful opportunity! I'm very excited and can't wait to get started."
EMU Athletics broke another all-time fundraising record in fiscal year 2024 (July 1, 2023-June 30, 2024), building momentum in a multi-year trend of raising the bar in development. The department secured more than $14.5 million in pledges and commitments through the unwavering generosity of alumni, fans, and friends, marking the highest total in the Department's history. This milestone surpasses the previous record of $9.8 million, set in Fiscal Year 2020. Contributions were made to various areas, including the Eastern Athletic Fund, sport-specific crowdfunding initiatives, capital projects, and legacy giving, all of which are crucial in supporting the 500+ student-athletes who proudly represent the Green and White.
Landmark contributions have been essential to the ongoing success of EMU Athletics, helping to provide state-of-the-art facilities and resources that benefit current and future student-athletes. Since Wetherbee arrived in Ypsilanti in 2017-18, Eastern Michigan has brought in more than $36 million in cash and pledges.
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