Nate Looney Appointed Executive Director of Planned Giving

U of A alumnus Nate Looney has been named executive director in the Office of Planned Giving effective May 8.  

In his new role as executive director, Looney will work with alumni and friends of the university to develop their charitable giving priorities through planned gifts, bequests, charitable gift annuities and other estate planning options.  

"Returning to the university is a dream come true, and I'm so excited to join this outstanding team working to build a stronger university and brighter future for the state," Looney said. "The Office of Planned Giving has a long and successful track record of helping families make an impact while establishing a lasting, meaningful legacy. My hope is that we will build upon the strong foundation already in place making smart-giving strategies available for more supporters." 

As a strategic partner and colleague of the advancement team, Looney will support the growth and development of philanthropy and engagement at the U of A, serving as team lead for the Office of Planned Giving and directing a comprehensive program that identifies, cultivates, solicits and stewards donors and prospects.  

"We couldn't be more pleased that Nate is returning to his alma mater to lead our Planned Giving team and know, with his track record, that he will elevate our current fundraising success," said Kellie Knight, associate vice chancellor for advancement partnerships and strategy. 

Most recently, Looney served as executive director of development and senior director of development for planned giving & compliance at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He has served as an online lecturer and visiting assistant professor at the U of A since 2012. 

"I believe securing unprecedented philanthropic investment is central to furthering the land-grant mission of the university, which, in doing so, will result in a brighter future for all those calling Arkansas home," Looney said. "During my time in private practice, as a lecturer and in development, I've seen how generous people can make a huge difference and inspire others to do the same." 

Looney is an active volunteer and has held several leadership roles for the Arkansas Bar Association and other regional and state organizations. He currently serves on the national board of directors for the Arkansas Alumni Association, with a term ending June 30.  

"We are excited to welcome Nate Looney to the team as our new executive director of Planned Giving," said Scott Varady, vice chancellor for advancement. "Nate played a key role in advancing philanthropic initiatives and building long-term donor relationships at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. His deep understanding of planned giving strategy and commitment to donor-centered engagement will strengthen our efforts to grow legacy support for the university. The depth and breadth of Nate's commitment to his alma mater from his days as the ASG President to his recent service on the National Board of Directors of the Arkansas Alumni Association ideally suits Nate to lead with meaningful impact." 

Looney holds a Master of Public Service from the Clinton School of Public Service, a Juris Doctor from the William H. Bowen School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in political science from the U of A. 

About the University of Arkansas: As Arkansas' flagship institution, the U of A provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the U of A contributes more than $3 billion to Arkansas' economy  through the teaching of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and job development, discovery through research and creative activity while also providing training for professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the U of A among the few U.S. colleges and universities with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among the top public universities in the nation. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.