Director of development named for undergraduate education

Rueben A. Mayes has been named the first director of development for the Washington State University Office of Undergraduate Education, effective August 10.  Included in his responsibilities will be providing leadership for development initiatives in the Office of Undergraduate Education, Honors College and Summer Session.

“We are pleased that Rueben Mayes has agreed to fill this key role,” said Provost Robert Bates.  “The Office of Undergraduate Education is central to the implementation of WSU’s strategic plan and the goal of providing the best undergraduate education at a research university.”

The Office of Undergraduate Education, under the leadership of Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Doug Baker, was established in January 2004.  The office provides leadership for coordination of universitywide aspects of undergraduate education and promotes continuous improvement in the undergraduate experience. It also helps departments and faculty fulfill accreditation requirements.

Core units within the office include general education, the WSU Writing Programs, the Center for Teaching, Learning and Technology, assessment, the Student Advising and Learning Center and community service learning.

“As a Washington State University graduate, Rueben is uniquely positioned to communicate the value of the undergraduate educational experience to WSU’s friends and alumni,” said WSU President V. Lane Rawlins.  “His background in both major gift fundraising and annual giving will help the Office of Undergraduate Education, Honors College and Summer Session quickly define key areas where private support will truly make a difference for WSU students and faculty.”

Mayes’ most recent position has been assistant dean for external relations at the University of Washington Business School.  Prior to joining UW, he held several positions at WSU, including executive director of the President’s Associates program and assistant athletic director for annual giving.  His previous experience includes fundraising leadership positions at NASS (National Association of Street Schools) and CRISTA Ministries.

Mayes earned both a bachelor’s degree and Master of Business Administration from WSU. During his undergraduate years, Mayes also was a leading player on WSU’s football team. He currently holds WSU’s rushing records for a single season  with 1,632 yards and for a career with 3,519 yards. Mayes set the NCAA record for most rushing yards gained in a single game, with 357 yards in the 1984 game against Oregon.