Derek Wesley, EdD, serves as senior executive director for advancement for the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. In this role, he leads the school’s comprehensive fundraising program, working closely with the dean, faculty leaders and university advancement colleagues to build philanthropic support for the Jacobs School’s education, research and clinical missions.

Wesley brings more than 26 years of advancement leadership experience across higher education and nonprofit organizations. Prior to joining the University at Buffalo, he served as chief development officer for the Louis S. Wolk Jewish Community Center of Greater Rochester. He also served as a senior consultant with MPK&D, where he advised colleges, universities and nonprofit organizations on campaign strategy, fundraising effectiveness and feasibility studies.

Over the course of his career, Wesley has held vice presidential and cabinet-level advancement leadership positions at Niagara University, the Augustine Institute, Alfred State College, Carlow University and Mount Marty University. He has led teams that secured more than $100 million in philanthropic support and has successfully closed numerous principal and major gifts ranging from six to eight figures.

Wesley is known for his collaborative leadership style, strategic approach to advancement and commitment to building meaningful relationships with donors, alumni and community partners. His expertise spans campaign planning, major and principal gifts, advancement operations, board engagement and philanthropic strategy.

A resident of Western New York for more than 14 years, Wesley brings a deep understanding of the region’s philanthropic landscape and a strong commitment to advancing the University at Buffalo’s mission and impact throughout the community.

Wesley earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Johnson & Wales University. He also holds master’s degrees from Providence College and has dedicated his career to helping institutions achieve transformational growth through philanthropy.