University of Maine Foundation names new president and CEO, alumnus Sean Campbell ’94
ORONO, Maine (Aug. 10, 2026) – University of Maine Foundation Board Chair Chris Keating ’79 announced that Sean Campbell ’94 has been appointed the new president and CEO of the Foundation, starting in the role on October 19.
Keating chaired the search committee for a national search process facilitated by AGB Search, based in Washington, D.C. Campbell will follow Jeffery Mills ’82, who is retiring on August 31 after 14 years of service, and join a legacy of strong leaders throughout the Foundation’s 92-year history.
“Sean spoke with heartfelt conviction that access to higher education is a life-changing opportunity — one he sees uniquely enriched by the University of Maine experience. His vision, blending respect for the legacy that will be left by Foundation President Jeff Mills with fresh, innovative ideas, impressed us deeply. Sean’s knowledge gained in a variety of pertinent roles at world-class institutions has uniquely prepared him for this moment. We are confident that under Sean’s guidance, our donors’ aspirations will be brought to life through the dedication and excellence of the Foundation’s staff.
“On behalf of the Foundation Board, we are deeply grateful to our search committee, University of Maine President Ferrini-Mundy, and our broader community of supporters for their enthusiastic engagement throughout this important process,” Keating said.
Campbell’s career in higher education advancement spans 28 years. He currently serves as vice president for advancement at Illinois Tech, where he oversees a comprehensive set of fundraising and alumni relations staff and programs for the university’s six schools and numerous institutes and centers. During his first 18 months, the team secured $90 million in new donations and pledges—including a $25 million gift—for the university’s $1 billion campaign.
Illinois Tech President Raj Echambadi said, “Sean quickly forged strong, productive partnerships with our alumni, donors, and colleagues across campus and within the Advancement office. A truly exceptional fundraiser, he seamlessly blends a talent for genuine relationship-building with a deep understanding of data and metrics.”
As chief development officer for four years at Loyola University Chicago, Campbell helped lead planning and management for a comprehensive campaign with a working goal of $750 million. During his tenure, he helped secure $340 million, including a gift of $100 million, the largest donation in the university’s history.
Additionally, he was vice president for advancement for Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York and held senior fundraising roles for nearly 20 years at the University of Chicago and Bates College. He has extensive experience working with trustees, executive officers, academic leaders, and faculty.
“Starting with my father and uncles, UMaine provided an education that completely changed the socio-economic trajectory for my family—as it has for many thousands of families dating back generations,” said Campbell. Bringing that history and professional experience to leading the Foundation is an exciting opportunity to help ensure this important mission.”
Campbell has deep roots in Maine, where much of his family still lives. He was born and raised in Bangor, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from the University of Maine in 1994, and has numerous family members who are UMaine alumni or current students.
“Sean’s professional background and his connections to Maine put him in a position to lead the successes of the Foundation to new levels. Through the Foundation, our generous donors provide critical support to our students, our capital infrastructure and other initiatives. I look forward to working with him as a new member of my cabinet during this important time as we continue to shape the strategic vision for the UMaine of the future,” UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy said.
The University of Maine Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization established to encourage, receive, and steward private support for UMaine. The Foundation plays a vital role in advancing UMaine’s education, research, and engagement mission and impact through philanthropy, endowment management, and strategic partnerships with university leadership. The Foundation has a 40-person staff with offices on the UMaine campus in Orono and at the Maine Graduate and Professional Center in Portland.
Campbell will assume the president and CEO position at a pivotal time for the Foundation. The Foundation’s endowment total has reached a record high of over $500 million and annual fundraising is at its highest levels in the Foundation’s history.
Vice President and Foundation General Counsel, Sarah McPartland-Good, will assume responsibilities as the interim president/CEO of the Foundation between Jeff Mills’ retirement in August and Sean Campbell’s arrival in mid-October.
