Schiele will draw on her extensive experience building strong philanthropic programs as she engages BU’s expansive global network of more than 400,000 alumni.
Following a national search in partnership with Lindauer, Boston University has appointed Michele Schiele as Senior Vice President for Advancement. An accomplished leader in development and alumni relations, Schiele brings nearly 30 years of experience in building strong philanthropic programs and engaging communities to drive institutional success.
For the past 14 years, Schiele has been a key figure at Stanford University, most recently serving as Deputy Vice President of Development and Campaign Director. In this role, she led a $1 billion fundraising campaign for Stanford Medicine that surpassed expectations, ultimately raising $1.7 billion over five years. Prior to her tenure at Stanford, she spent 14 years in leadership positions at the University of Chicago, where she played a pivotal role in shaping its advancement strategy and philanthropic growth.
“Michele is a well-respected and highly experienced leader in her field, who has demonstrated clear results for some of the top universities in the country,” President Melissa Gilliam said. “I am excited for her to begin in her work here and confident that she will play important roles in securing Boston University’s eminence for years to come.”
Schiele returns to her alma mater to lead Boston University’s advancement efforts and strengthen connections with its expansive global network of over 400,000 alumni. She is deeply committed to fostering meaningful relationships and ensuring that alumni remain active participants in BU’s continued growth and impact.
“A university is only as strong as its communities,” Schiele says. “Alumni, in particular, provide an important feedback loop that helps ensure universities contribute to society in important ways. BU has over 400,000 alumni around the world, and we need them to help BU be a thriving hub of knowledge and research by sharing their wisdom, their passion, and their time. I am excited to meet all of our communities and learn how we can build and strengthen our connections.”
Michele Schiele was appointed in March 2025. The search was led by Lindauer Senior Vice President Faith Montgomery and Senior Consultant Andrew Machado.