MARS HILL, NC (09/20/2023) Mars Hill University named Greta Byrd as its new vice president for advancement. Byrd joined the university in January as a major gifts officer and has served as interim vice president for advancement since June.

As vice president for advancement she oversees offices which focus on building trust, goodwill, and financial support for the university. Those offices include alumni relations, donor relations, foundations engagement, and major gifts.

The university engaged the search firm Buffkin/Baker to assist with identifying candidates for the position through a nationwide search. MHU President Tony Floyd says Byrd rose to the top of a very strong pool of candidates.

"I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Greta as our new advancement vice president," Floyd said. "She has a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges our university faces. She demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our mission throughout the rigorous selection process and truly stood out as the ideal candidate from an exceptionally talented pool of applicants."

Byrd received her undergraduate degree in psychology from Mars Hill and her M.B.A. in healthcare management from Marylhurst University. She served several years as a member of Mars Hill's alumni board.

"I am truly thrilled to be taking on the role of vice president of advancement at my alma mater," said Byrd. "The opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of Mars Hill is both an honor and privilege."

Byrd came to Mars Hill following a 30-year career in human services with experience in nonprofit leadership and fundraising. She received the award for Outstanding Woman Nonprofit Leader at the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce's 2022 WomanUP Celebration. She also is recipient of the 2023 Arc of Buncombe County Service Award and the 2009 Mayor's Award for Affordable Housing Development. Byrd serves on the boards of Mountain Housing Opportunities and Arc of Buncombe County.

Source: Mars Hill University