New Development Leader Announced


June 4, 2012

BJ Davisson

Bernard J. (“B.J.”) Davisson II joined the Division of Development and Alumni Relations on Friday as associate vice president for principal gifts, taking over for John Kudless who is retiring at the end of June.

Mr. Davisson comes to GW from Frostburg State University, where he served as the vice president for university advancement and executive director of the FSU Foundation, Inc. At Frostburg State University, Mr. Davisson was responsible for fundraising, alumni relations, publications and media relations programs, as well as the public radio station WFWM. Mr. Davisson also led the effort to create a new philanthropic culture by strengthening the infrastructure, re-engineering the foundation board and leading a successful development campaign.

Previously, Mr. Davisson worked for Kaspick & Company, a subsidiary of TIAA-CREF, serving as a relationship manager between the nonprofit organizations that are the firm’s clients and those who manage and administer the planned gift assets on their behalf. His career prior to joining Kaspick & Company spanned more than 20 years in higher education advancement, including positions as senior director of gift planning at the Johns Hopkins Institutions and as the associate vice president for development at Hood College in Frederick, Md.

Mr. Davisson earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Frostburg State University and a master’s degree in higher education administration from the Ohio State University.

“B.J. Davisson’s wealth of experience in development and fundraising will greatly contribute to the momentum of giving at George Washington,” said Mike Morsberger, vice president of development and alumni relations. “I also am grateful for John Kudless’ tireless service to the university and thank him for his leadership.”

Mr. Kudless came to George Washington in 2007 as the associate vice president for principal gifts. During his tenure, he also served as the interim vice president for development and alumni relations.

Mr. Kudless’ career in development has spanned 38 years, including leadership positions at Johns Hopkins University, Georgetown University and Virginia Commonwealth University. He also served for eight years as senior executive vice president and managing director of the fundraising consultancy group Grenzebach Glier and Associates.