Ellen Fleming
About Ellen Fleming
Ellen Fleming serves as the Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at UMass Boston, a position she has held since 2007. She has a strong background in fundraising and development, having contributed to significant grant acquisitions and philanthropic initiatives.
Work at UMass Boston
Ellen Fleming has served as the Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at UMass Boston since 2007. In this role, she has focused on building relationships with corporate partners and foundations to secure funding for university initiatives. Prior to this position, she worked at UMass Boston as the Director of Stewardship for eight months in 2007. During her tenure, she has been instrumental in various fundraising efforts, including securing significant grants.
Education and Expertise
Ellen Fleming has pursued extensive education in development communications and public relations. She studied at Harvard University Extension School, completing a course in Development Communications since 1999. Additionally, she attended Emerson College, where she completed a Professional Studies course in non-profit public relations in 1998. Her educational background also includes studying at Columbia Business School, where she completed the Personal Leadership program in 2013, and at Simmons College, focusing on Women in Development.
Background in Fundraising
Ellen Fleming has a strong background in fundraising and development. She worked at Caritas Norwood Hospital as a Development Officer from 2003 to 2007 and previously served as an Assistant Campaign Manager at the same institution from 2002 to 2003. Her experience includes drafting speeches and managing speaking programs that resulted in unsolicited gifts ranging from $1,000 to $25,000. She has also completed the Fundraising BASICS Course through the Association of Fundraising Professionals - Massachusetts Chapter.
Key Contributions and Initiatives
Ellen Fleming played a key role in securing a $1.45 million grant from The National Math and Science Initiative for the UTeach Boston program. She conceptualized and co-produced the Chancellor’s Roundtables, which are exclusive forums designed to enhance the university's profile and foster philanthropic support. Additionally, she was involved in recruiting and advising teams for the MacArthur Foundation’s 100&Change competition, with entries achieving a top 42% global ranking.
Professional Development
Ellen Fleming has actively engaged in professional development throughout her career. She has participated in various educational programs, including the Women in Development/Simmons School of Management Seminar: Foundations of Management since 2002. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident in her diverse educational pursuits, which have equipped her with the skills necessary for her roles in corporate and foundation relations.