Emmanuel College Names Chief Advancement Officer

In this role, Denning oversees all aspects of fundraising and alumni relations with the goals of elevating Emmanuel College in the philanthropic community, continuing to strengthen relationships with generations of graduates, and cultivating a culture of engagement and giving.

Denning brings to Emmanuel more than 15 years of experience in institutional advancement, most recently as the Associate Director of Major Gifts at Boston College. Previously, he served in advancement roles at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Northeastern University.

“With his broad experience and strategic expertise in institutional advancement, Brian Denning will play an instrumental role in positioning Emmanuel to thrive now and in the years ahead,” said Emmanuel College President Dr. Mary K. Boyd. “We look forward to the skilled leadership he will provide to our advancement team – and to our ongoing efforts to engage our worldwide community of alumni and friends, as well as new sources of support.” 

Denning comes to Emmanuel on the heels of the historic success of the Campaign for Our Second Century, which raised over $51 million in support of the educational experience and student financial aid. Emmanuel College Chair of the Board Margaret L. McKenna ’83 who also co-chaired the campaign, said, “Emmanuel has found in Brian Denning a seasoned advancement professional who can continue to build on the fundraising momentum of recent years. His knowledge of the Boston philanthropic landscape and deep commitment to Catholic education are critical to fueling Emmanuel’s educational mission far into its second century.”

At Emmanuel, Denning will seek to expand opportunities for donors to have a profound impact on current and future students. These include gifts in support of scholarship aid and innovative learning experiences that prepare students for ethical and effective leadership in an ever-evolving global marketplace.

Denning’s connection to Emmanuel is lifelong; his late mother, Maryellen (Hayes) Denning was a member of the Class of 1965, an education major and a committed alumna.