Planned Giving Directors Named at University of Arkansas

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David Hall and Mitchell Spearman

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – David C. Hall and Mitchell Spearman have been named directors of planned giving at the University of Arkansas. In this capacity, both directors are responsible for raising private gift support for the institution through current and deferred gift planning options in collaboration with the college and unit-based fundraising teams on campus.

David Hall relocated to Arkansas from Englewood, Colo., where he served as the national director for planned giving at the American Humane Association. In this role, he was responsible for implementing and directing a new national planned giving program. Prior to that position, Hall held positions as the senior director of planned giving for The Salvation Army-Intermountain Division and the director of development for the National Benevolent Association, both located in Denver.

Hall’s earlier development experience includes roles at Phillips University in Oklahoma and McMurry University in Texas. He also brings to the University of Arkansas experience as a captain in the United States Air Force, where he was a distinguished graduate of Officer Training School. Hall received a bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University.

“I am thrilled to be at a well-established institution that has an excellent reputation,” said Hall. “The University of Arkansas development office is made up of high-quality people, and the university is poised for even better days ahead. In this stage in my career, I wanted to go where I would be valued for what I do best. I also wanted to do what I enjoy most about fundraising — sitting across the table and talking with people about the opportunities their philanthropy can create.”

Adding to Hall’s interest in this position was the physical location. He and his wife, Dodie, have four children and five grandchildren who live in or near Northwest Arkansas.

Joining Hall in the development office is Mitchell Spearman, who most recently worked as the assistant vice president of gift planning and major gifts at Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pa. There, he planned, managed and coordinated the marketing and development of the planned giving and major gift solicitation for the university. During his time in Philadelphia, Mitchell organized and coordinated 14 regional events from San Francisco to Boca Raton, Fla., to engage donors and build excitement around the University’s campaign. Prior to his role at Drexel, Spearman worked as the assistant director and then the director of gift planning at Presbyterian College in Clinton, S.C.

Spearman’s prior experience included working for Sen. Strom Thurmond and as a law clerk for the South Carolina House of Representatives.

Spearman holds a bachelor’s degree from Presbyterian College and a Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Spearman was recognized with the highest award given to a student leader at South Carolina Law, the J.J. Dowling Award.

“The University of Arkansas embodies the very being of this state,” said Spearman. “It is a treat for a professional to have a chance to work at an institution where the school and the state are tied so closely together. There really is something special in these hills, and I am thankful to be here.”

Spearman’s interest in fundraising began during law school, when he worked to raise money to help law students affected by Hurricane Katrina. He says it changed his life, and he could not imagine doing anything else.

Hall and Spearman, who each began their duties June 1, report to Jim Harris, executive director of gift and estate planning in the office of university development.

“We are indeed fortunate to add two new members to our team with such wonderful talent and experience,” said Harris. “I look forward to working with David and Mitchell as we assist our donors in establishing their legacy at the university.”