Jonathan Purvis is a respected leader in higher education advancement with over 20 years of experience. He was named Butler University’s Vice President for Advancement on April 16, 2018. Purvis led the public fundraising phase of Butler Beyond: The Campaign for Butler University which surpassed its $250 million goal in February 2022. The largest campaign in the University’s history, Butler Beyond concluded on May 31, 2022 having raised $262 million.
Prior to arriving at Butler, Purvis held progressive leadership positions at Indiana University including Vice President for Development and Regional Campuses, Executive Director of Development and Alumni Relations for the Indiana University School of Education, and Executive Director of Special Gifts and Annual Giving.
Purvis holds the Certified Fund Raising Executive credential (CFRE) and has taught a variety of fundraising courses. He is a frequent presenter on a range of Advancement topics and a contributing author to the third edition of the acclaimed Achieving Excellence in Fundraising. He holds a BA in English and Master of Public Affairs, both from Indiana University.
Having grown up in Noblesville, Indiana in a family of Butler alumni, Jonathan is excited to be part of the Butler community along with his wife Brittany, daughters Sophie and Abi, and son Joshua.
The role of Sr. Executive Director for University Advancement & Campaign Director is charged with the following responsibilities in support of University Advancement’s purpose to connect and engage the Butler University community. University Advancement maximizes philanthropy in support of Butler’s mission.
Provide strategic direction and leadership for all operations that support major gift fundraising
Ensure University Advancement division operational alignment with expectations of the Office of the President
