Dewayne Neeley: Embracing a New Role, Same Love for Greenville University

Published: November 07, 2024

Author: Liz Dowell

After five years splitting his time between Director of Alumni and Church Relations at Greenville University (GU) and Major Gift Officer, Dewayne Neeley, Class of '98, is taking on a new challenge while remaining in the community he cherishes.

He will step into the role of full-time Director of Philanthropy. Neeley is committed to strengthening GU’s connections with alumni by cultivating deeper relationships and securing vital financial support.

GRADUATING CLASS OF 1998

Neeley's journey with GU began long before joining the staff. Bornin Indiana to a Free Methodist household, his childhood was spent in cities of Champaign IL, Indianapolis IN, and Bowling Green KY.

But his ties to GU run deep. His older sister Wynette, a 1992 graduate, and his mother, Sherry Armstrong ’64, played pivotal roles in his decision to attend Greenville.

“I’m pretty firm that if my sister hadn’t gone here, I wouldn’t have come,” Neeley reflects. His father Wayne Neeley also served on GU’s Board of Trustees for more than 12 years, he was a Free Methodist pastor in the Wabash Conference.

Neeley’s family influence and the close-knit Free Methodist community ultimately led him to follow in their footsteps.

After graduating in 1998 with a major in history and a minor in English, Neeley built his career at Western Kentucky University, where he expanded a dual-credit program.

RETURNING TO ONE’S ROOTS

Despite his success, GU’s pull remained strong. In 2019, a conversation with then Vice President of Advancement Scott Giffen opened the door to return to Greenville, a decision Neeley and his wife embraced after careful thought and prayer.

“When I hired Dewayne five years ago, I knew he would make an exceptional gift officer even though he had no prior experience,” said Scott Giffen, Chief Philanthropy Officer. “His relational and strategic skills are so strong, and he deeply loves this place. With this new focus, Dewayne will continue to excel.”

During his time as Director of Alumni and Church Relations, Neeley balanced alumni engagement and event coordination with the personalized work of major gift cultivation.

CHOOSING ONE AVENUE TO FOCUS ON

Balancing broad alumni work with major gift relationships was challenging but also rewarding, giving him valuable experience for his next step.

“The broad alumni work was complemented by the personal connections I made through major gift work, meeting people over coffee or in their homes, sharing our mutual love for Greenville,” he says.

Neeley's transition to Director of Philanthropy marks a shift in focus, not a departure from his passion for alumni relations. Now, his efforts will center more specifically on philanthropy. “It’s not transactional fundraising,” he explains. “The giving comes through relationships and shared experiences about this place we love. I enjoy the process of reconnecting with people and talking about Greenville.”

“Dewayne arrived on our campus with a heart for the school and the students we serve. I am grateful for his decision to focus on one of our top priorities: building relationships with those who share our vision,” said Brad Warren, Vice President of University Relations.

GOALS FOR HIS NEW POSITION

Looking ahead, Neeley sees both opportunities and challenges.

“It’s about finding the aspect of Greenville that resonates most with each individual and making the right request,” he says. He acknowledges the demands of increased travel in his new role but is confident in balancing work with family life.

Neeley is especially focused on engaging younger alumni to foster a culture of philanthropy, starting with manageable contributions. “Giving doesn’t have to be a large amount—it can start with $10 a month. It’s about creating a lifelong habit of giving back.”

He also advocates for keeping alumni informed and engaged beyond major events like Homecoming, suggesting affinity groups, such as sports teams or student organizations, as powerful channels for fostering connections among graduates. “There’s a lot of important work outside of Homecoming, and I think leveraging shared interests can keep our alumni network vibrant,” he says.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT ALUMNI DIRECTOR

As he steps away from his public-facing role, Neeley feels optimistic about the future. Though his focus is shifting toward philanthropy, the heart of his work—connecting with those who love GU—remains the same. He expresses gratitude for the support he’s received and encourages alumni to stay engaged.

“Greenville needs you,” he says. “Thank you for your support, and don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.”

For Neeley, it’s not about leaving a role; it’s about continuing to serve in a different capacity. His dedication to GU endures, driven by the belief that the university’s future rests on the strength of its community.

As he puts it, “I want to be phenomenal—not just meet my goals, but truly make a difference for GU.”