“In most of the places I’ve worked, it’s a community of students, faculty and staff, and the goal is to collaborate for the benefit of the students,” said Joe Quinlan, who recently joined Caldwell University as major gifts officer. He brings a wealth of intercollegiate athletics and philanthropy experience to Caldwell, having served at some of the highest levels in collegiate athletics including at Seton Hall, Saint Peter’s, Rutgers, Columbia and at organizations like the NCAA and the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority. “At all of the places, there is a customer service component—that you want people to have a positive experience at your institution,” said Quinlan.

He is excited to be working with the Development and Alumni Affairs team and with Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics Mark Corino in leading Cougar Pride, the official fundraising arm for the University’s NCAA Division II athletics program, along with sprint football. “It is important for all of us to support athletics the way we do other components of the University,” Quinlan said. He explained that the support they provide to student-athletes goes well beyond the actual playing of the sport. That includes comprehensive student-athlete development in areas such as academic and career services and physical, social and emotional support. “Mark Corino and I share the same philosophy. Neither one of us would say athletics should usurp or jump over academic priority … but it is a part of the University mission.” 🟥