J.A. Knight named to vice chancellor's post at UVa-Wise

Jim Knight, a talented fundraiser with a long association with The University of Virginia's College at Wise, has been tapped to become the College's vice chancellor for Development and College Relations. He will assume his new duties on March 15.

"Jim Knight is a man of great integrity with exceptional experience and fundraising expertise," UVa-Wise Chancellor Steven Kaplan said Wednesday. "He has a record of accomplishment that is truly breathtaking. I am delighted he has agreed to guide our development efforts at UVa-Wise."

Knight served as the College's chancellor from 1988 until 1992, before moving to Charlottesville to direct development efforts at the University of Virginia Health System. He currently serves as associate vice president for Health System Development at U.Va.

At U.Va., Knight built and directed a comprehensive fundraising program for the healthcare enterprise, which includes the School of Medicine, the School of Nursing, the 600-bed Medical Center, and the Health Sciences Library. He led the Health Systemâs successful $246 million campaign, which exceeded its original goal by $121 million. Knight is a core member of U.Va.'s award-winning development team, which has been recognized, along with Harvard University's, as the best in the United States.

For Knight, the job change will offer an opportunity to return to the institution where he launched efforts to increase private fundraising. During his term as chancellor, Knight began the process to create a university-related foundation to enhance private support for the College, initiated the College's benefactor and volunteer of the year awards program, and laid the foundation for the College's highly successful first capital campaign. He is also responsible for starting the College's intercollegiate football program and its baccalaureate nursing program.