University Advancement. Office Of Development (University Of Maine) Records

In 1959, the University of Maine first established an active development fund. Its efforts were directed by the University of Maine Development Council (which later became the President's Development Council) which was established in 1960 and consisted of both alumni and friends.

The Development Office’s first director was Peter C. Crolius and its primary mission was to motivate increased financial support for the University of Maine especially capital growth from private sources and to maintain contact with those who have previously given to the university. The Office handled various types of gifts and donations including: cash contributions, stocks, bonds, real estate, property, and equipment, gift or endowment by a will, living trust, insurance endowment, and insurance annuity. The Office produced numerous publications relating to develop to promote its mission of soliciting donations.

Funds raised by the Development Office were used for a range of activities including: library facilities, student financial aid, scholarships, graduate fellowships, chair and professorships, construction projects, and teaching equipment.

By the early 1970's under the leadership of director Harold L. Chute the Development Office managed a number of programs including: Deferred Giving, Development Council, Parents and Friends Organization, Patrons of the Fine Arts, and various seminars. As well as managing a number of donor funds the Department also managed a number of major capital campaigns including the Founders Endowment Fund which was formally launched in May of 1977. In the 1980s under the leadership of first Alan J. Stone and then George Baughmann the Officer oversaw the "Second Century Fund" project which sought to raise funds to establish a performing arts center. During the 2000s under the leadership of Eric Rolfson, Vice President for Development & Alumni Relations the Office oversaw "Campaign Maine". The Office also participated in the planning of celebrations such as those held for the University of Maine’s 150th anniversary in 2015.

The Office were also responsible for administering the Stillwater Society of donors who had made significant contributions to the University of Maine. The Society held an annual dinner where individuals who had a tremendous impact on the university and its students were honored.

Effective July 1, 2016, the University of Maine Development Office closed with funding raising operations unified with a partnership with the University of Maine Foundation.