May 26, 2025
Dear Conn community,
After a comprehensive and highly competitive national search, I am thrilled to announce the appointment of Nicole Blemberg as Connecticut College’s next vice president for advancement. She will begin her new role on June 23.
Nicole is a dynamic and mission-driven advancement leader with more than two decades of experience in fundraising, organizational development, and team leadership, most recently serving as assistant vice president for college and regional advancement at Marquette University in Milwaukee.
A first-generation college student from rural Upper Michigan, Nicole earned her bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University and a master’s degree in organizational development from Alverno College. She credits her own liberal arts education with opening the door to a meaningful career in Wisconsin’s nonprofit and higher education sectors. Her professional journey has taken her through a range of institutions—University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, Carroll University, Alverno College—and community-based organizations such as the United Way of Waukesha County and The Women’s Center, Inc.
At Marquette, Nicole led high-performing teams, supported campaigns ranging from $50 million to over $800 million, and implemented innovative strategies that resulted in record-breaking fundraising outcomes. She also served as an adjunct faculty member in Alverno College’s MBA program, and she recently became a global mentor in the Women Leaders for the World program through the organization How Women Lead.
Nicole was drawn to Conn by our mission and values—particularly our emphasis on preparing students to think critically and act with impact in a global society. Her commitment to access, affordability, and equity in education, along with her collaborative leadership style and deep experience, make her an exceptional addition to our senior leadership team.
Please join me in warmly welcoming Nicole—and her husband, Derek, and youngest son, Caiden—to the Connecticut College community. I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the years ahead.
Sincerely,
Andrea E. Chapdelaine, Ph.D.
President