FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Blake Bard is the new director of development for the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas. Bard relocated to northwest Arkansas from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kan., where he served as the director of major gifts for the institution’s college of business. Bard previously held faculty and staff positions at Crowder Community College in Neosho, Mo.

Bard’s first day was Dec. 15, 2010. He reports jointly to the dean of Bumpers College, Michael Vayda, and to Mark Power, executive director of development and principal gifts in the office of university development.

“There is such an allure about the University of Arkansas,” said Bard. “I have been a lifelong fan of the Razorbacks and also an admirer of the great support and recognition the institution receives. I look forward to the opportunity to interact with the many graduates, friends and constituents that make this place a strong and proud university.”

As director of development, Bard will be responsible for raising private gift support for the many student and faculty needs of Bumpers College, and identifying ways to connect alumni and friends with the college and with the university as a whole.

“Blake is an exceptional addition to our college,” said Vayda. “This is an exciting time for us, and it is critical to have a fundraiser who understands our need to engage alumni and friends, connect our college with the rest of campus and raise private gift support. Kellie Knight did an outstanding job for our college in this capacity, and since she took a new role with the College of Engineering, we have searched for the ideal person to fill those shoes. I think Blake is a perfect choice.”

During his time at Pittsburg State University, Bard played a significant role in the institution’s recently concluded $120 million capital campaign. He also worked to secure the largest privately funded scholarship in the history of the university.

“We are pleased to welcome Blake to the development family,” said Power. “He has a proven track record as an outstanding fundraiser. I look forward to working with Blake and with the rest of the Bumpers College leadership team to build support for a successful future.”

“It's extremely exciting to be joining a place where the leadership is among the best in the business and is supportive and understanding of the importance of development,” said Bard. “I feel blessed to work among the fantastic group in the Division of Advancement, and I'm very pleased to be working for such a tradition-rich college in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences.”

Bard is originally from Webb City, Mo. He has a five-year-old son, Ayden, and is engaged to be married to Natalie Womack in June.