Don Birkelbach
About Don Birkelbach
Don Birkelbach serves as the Sr. Director of Major Gifts at the Texas A&M Foundation, where he has worked since 2001. He has a background in chemistry and personnel management, with extensive experience from his previous role at The Dow Chemical Company.
Work at Texas A&M Foundation
Don Birkelbach serves as the Senior Director of Major Gifts at the Texas A&M Foundation. He has held this position since 2001, contributing to the foundation's fundraising efforts in the Gulf Coast region. In his role, he is responsible for securing major gifts and collaborates with various departments, including the Texas A&M Energy Institute and the Texas A&M Institute for Advanced Study. Additionally, he temporarily serves as the development officer for the College of Science while a new candidate is being recruited for that position.
Education and Expertise
Don Birkelbach has an extensive educational background. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Texas A&M University in 2012. Prior to that, he studied at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, where he obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Personnel Management from 1976 to 1979. He also holds a Master of Science in Inorganic Chemistry from Texas A&M University, further solidifying his expertise in the field.
Background in Chemical Industry
Before joining the Texas A&M Foundation, Don Birkelbach worked for The Dow Chemical Company for 27 years, from 1974 to 2001. He held the position of Technical Manager during his tenure in Freeport, Texas. His experience in the chemical industry contributes to his understanding of technical and scientific aspects relevant to his current role in fundraising for educational institutions.
Professional Collaborations
In his current position at the Texas A&M Foundation, Don Birkelbach collaborates with the Directors of the Texas A&M Energy Institute and the Texas A&M Institute for Advanced Study. These collaborations aim to enhance fundraising strategies and initiatives that support research and development in energy and advanced studies, reflecting his commitment to advancing the university's mission.