Since beginning his Auburn career in 2012, Jon Wilson (transportation ’97) has helped
raise nearly $90 million for the university. On October 6, Wilson will bring his fundraising
and leadership experience to the Harbert College of Business as its new senior director
of advancement.
Wilson is currently the senior director of development in the Samuel Ginn College
of Engineering, where he led one of the college’s most successful fundraising years
and helped secure the largest scholarship gift in the college’s history—a $30 million commitment from the Ginn Family Foundation.
“Jon’s philanthropic philosophy is grounded in the Auburn Creed and founded on building lasting and meaningful relationships with alumni and donors,”
said Harbert Dean Jennifer Mueller-Phillips. “He will be a tremendous asset to our
college as we soon embark on a historic university comprehensive campaign.”
Wilson will lead an accomplished Harbert advancement team that will soon celebrate
reaching Harbert College’s $12 million fundraising goal for FY25. He will also work
with Mueller-Phillips and college leadership to continue developing Harbert’s philanthropic
strategy, while cultivating new major gift opportunities.
“I look forward to building on the solid giving foundation already in place by engaging
with donors, alumni and other stakeholders,” said Wilson. “Through strong relationships
with Harbert constituents, we can be the conduit that brings each donor’s philanthropic
vision for the college to life.”
Wilson knows the value of genuine relationships. As an undergraduate, he was influenced
by Professor James Adams.
“I came to Auburn as a kid who didn’t know what I wanted to do. If it had not been
for the influence of Dr. Adams, I don’t know where I’d be,” said Wilson, noting that
Adams helped him get an internship with textile corporation WestPoint Stevens, which
launched his business career.
After graduating from Auburn, Wilson worked in the private sector for several years
in sales and logistics roles. In 2012, he returned to the university, serving as a
development officer and senior director in Tigers Unlimited and the Samuel Ginn College
of Engineering. He looks forward to serving the Harbert College of Business to support
its students, staff, alumni and donors.
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