By Joshua Woods / Mar 27, 2020 3:09:38 PM
News
Veteran gift planning expert Phillip Cowart was recently named the College of Agriculture’s director of development. As director, Cowart will lead college efforts to raise private funds for research, facilities, scholarships and other needs.
Cowart had previously served as Auburn University’s associate director of trusts, estates and gift planning. While in this role, he raised more than $156 million for the university.
“Phillip’s career background in finance and gift planning make him an excellent fit for this role. He also brings with him a deep knowledge both of our college and industry,” said Paul Patterson, dean of the College of Agriculture. “We look forward to Phillip’s leadership on a number of vital funding initiatives.”
Cowart, who grew up on a cattle ranch in West Alabama, is a 1983 graduate of the College of Agriculture with a degree in agricultural science.
Prior to his roles at Auburn, Cowart spent 25 years in the insurance and financial services industry, where he identified and managed new sales and service agents.
“The College of Agriculture is a cornerstone of Auburn’s heritage, and it will play a key role in Auburn’s future as a preeminent land-grant institution,” Cowart said. “But this will require the development of new programs, the construction of new research facilities, the recruitment of top faculty and increased philanthropic support. I am excited and honored to be a part of such a vital initiative.”
