Collari named executive director of engineering development

Ed Collari was named executive director of development for the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering on Nov. 1. He joined the college in 2022 as a development officer and was later promoted to senior major gifts officer.

As executive director, he succeeds Jon Wilson, now senior director of advancement for the Harbert College of Business. Collari leads the college’s fundraising efforts and manages its development officers and coordinators. Serving as a coach and mentor, he is responsible for working with his team to execute the college’s strategic plans for stewardship and engagement.

“We’re so thankful to Jon for leading our advancement team to another record-setting year at the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering,” said Mario Eden, dean of engineering. “We have the utmost confidence that Ed will help take the college to new heights. His record as a development officer is excellent, and his experience building teams will be essential to meet the college’s ambitious goals for the future.”

The executive director works with the dean to ensure the college’s fundraising goals are met, and he also serves as a major gift fundraiser. Prior to joining the college, Collari served for seven years as the president and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. There, he raised more than $1.2 million for the organization’s capital campaign, defined and executed a new strategic plan and laid the groundwork to form the award-winning Lake Martin Tourism Association. Collari has additional private sector experience in management, marketing, sales and sports broadcasting.

“Having the chance to lead the advancement team at the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering is the opportunity of a lifetime,” Collari said. “It’s a testament to the college that it has so many impressive alumni — being able to work with them and our excellent group of development officers and coordinators represents the pinnacle of my career.”

Margaret Arnold, university associate vice president of philanthropy, said Collari has the skills and experience the college needs for the future.

“Ed understands that what makes the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering so special — and so important to Auburn — is its fiercely dedicated alumni, faculty and students,” Arnold said. “I have no doubt that he and his team will continue to exceed our high expectations for the college.”