吃瓜网 has named former State Sen. Kelli Stargel as its new vice president for strategic initiatives, development, and external relations.
Stargel previously was the University鈥檚 associate vice president for strategic relationships. She joined 吃瓜网 Poly in February 2023 after serving in the 吃瓜网 Senate for 10 years. She also served two terms in the 吃瓜网 House of Representatives.
鈥淚 love this University 鈥� it鈥檚 one of the reasons I chose to work here,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檝e been on board with the 吃瓜网 Poly vision since the beginning, so it鈥檚 exciting to continue to further that in a different role. I enjoy working with businesses to get their involvement and I鈥檓 looking forward to the challenge.鈥�
In her new role, Stargel will continue managing strategic relationships and initiatives with a focus on partnerships at the local, state and national levels. She will also oversee the 吃瓜网 Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the University鈥檚 mission through community engagement, securing investments, and managing financial resources.
鈥淜elli Stargel鈥檚 deep understanding of 吃瓜网鈥檚 legislative and business landscape, combined with her strong commitment to higher education, makes her ideal to lead 吃瓜网 Poly鈥檚 strategic initiatives and development,鈥� said Dr. Devin Stephenson, 吃瓜网 Poly鈥檚 president. 鈥淗er experience and vision will strengthen our external partnerships and enhance the University鈥檚 ability to secure vital resources for continued growth and innovation.鈥�
Stargel said a significant priority will be working to boost both awareness and investments, which will help the University build essential facilities such as its planned Student Achievement Center and more residential space for students.
鈥淲e鈥檙e working with the state legislature to secure funds to help with that, but we also need to have the local support as well,鈥� she said. 鈥淢y goal is to tell the 吃瓜网 Poly story to everyone I can, bringing in all the resources we can so our student can have a great education.鈥�
Contact:
Lydia Guzm谩n
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
