SITUATION OVERVIEW:
ZRG has been engaged to recruit a Assistant Vice President for MSU Foundation Operations for Morgan State University.
ABOUT MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY:
Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution providing instruction to a multiethnic, multiracial, multinational student body and offering more than 150 academic programs leading to degrees from the baccalaureate to the doctorate. As Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, Morgan fulfills its mission to address the needs and challenges of the modern urban environment through intense community-level study and pioneering solutions.
Anchored in a charming residential area of northeast Baltimore, the breadth of Morgan’s expansive campus encompasses more than 185 acres extending beyond its sprawling campus proper which features state-of-the-art facilities geared toward innovative teaching and learning in the 21st century. The only university to have its entire campus, designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, offers a safe and inviting learning environment with easy access to the best the city has to offer: culture, exhibits, dining, shopping, activities, sightseeing and employment.
The off-campus opportunities also extend to community projects and civic engagement.
Morgan has graduated more than 55,000 degree candidates since its establishment more than 150 years ago, producing a passionately devoted corps of alumni who have found success in all areas of endeavor, in the U.S. and beyond.
Among the nation's most diverse Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and the largest in Maryland, Morgan seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible.
CORE VALUES
Leadership
Morgan seeks to provide rigorous academic curricula and challenging co-curricular opportunities to promote the development of leadership qualities in students and to facilitate leadership development among faculty, staff, and students.
Innovation
Morgan encourages and supports its faculty, staff, and students in all forms of scholarship including the discovery and application of knowledge in teaching and learning and in developing innovative products and processes.
Integrity
At Morgan, honest communications, ethical behavior, and accountability for words and deeds are expected from all members of the University community. Diversity
A broad diversity of people and ideas are welcomed and supported at Morgan as essential to quality education in a global interdependent society.
Students will have reasonable and affordable access to a comprehensive range of high quality educational programs and services.
Excellence
Excellence in teaching, research, scholarship, creative endeavors, student services, and in all aspects of the University's operations is continuously pursued at Morgan to ensure institutional effectiveness and efficiency.
Respect
Each person at Morgan is to be treated with respect and dignity and is to be treated equitably in all situations.
MISSION & VALUES
Morgan State University's vision and mission statements as well as its core institutional values are consistent with the University's Carnegie Foundation classification as a doctoral research university and are intended to direct Morgan's strategic growth over the next decade.
VISION STATEMENT
Morgan State University is the premier public urban research university in Maryland, known for its excellence in teaching, intensive research, effective public service, and community engagement. Morgan prepares diverse and competitive graduates for success in a global, interdependent society.
MISSION STATEMENT
Morgan State University serves the community, region, state, nation, and world as an intellectual and creative resource by supporting, empowering, and preparing high-quality, diverse graduates to lead the world. The University offers innovative, inclusive, and distinctive educational experiences to a broad cross section of the population in a comprehensive range of disciplines at the baccalaureate, master's, doctoral, and professional degree levels. Through collaborative pursuits, scholarly research, creative endeavors, and dedicated public service, the University gives significant priority to addressing societal problems, particularly those prevalent in urban communities.
POSITION:
Reporting to and partnering with the Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the Morgan State University Foundation, the Assistant Vice President (AVP) for Morgan State University Foundation Operations will collaborate closely with the executive director, senior leaders, and board members to ensure the fiscal integrity, sustainability, and mission alignment of the foundation. The AVP will provide strategic financial direction and oversight to support the organization’s mission and goals.
This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a proven change agent who can assess, audit, and evaluate existing systems and processes; implement new accounting and financial management systems; restructure financial accounts and chart of accounts; and establish best-in-class operational practices. The AVP will manage the finance team, strengthen internal systems, and deliver operational solutions that optimize efficiency, accountability, and transparency. The AVP will be a strategic and operational leader with exceptional technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and the ability to execute. They will partner with the investment advisors to manage the university’s endowment and oversee complex fund accounting, financial reporting, audit oversight, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance. The AVP will also serve as a trusted advisor and collaborator to campus colleagues, ensuring effective stewardship and management of gift funds.
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
Financial Management Policies and Procedures
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to safeguard foundation assets and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements;
- Prepare and present accurate, timely financial reports, budgets, and forecasts to the Executive Director, board of directors, and stakeholders;
- Oversee all accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, reconciliations, and general ledger management;
- Ensure consistency in financial reporting and alignment across advancement units.
Funding Administration, Operations, and Financial Systems
- Lead a comprehensive assessment and audit of current financial and operational systems, identifying gaps, inefficiencies, and risks;
- Serve as a change agent to design and implement modern accounting and financial management systems that strengthen automation, transparency, and accountability;
- Restructure and maintain the chart of accounts, ensuring alignment with organizational growth, fund structures, and reporting needs;
- Oversee the funding process for endowed funds, scholarships, restricted and unrestricted accounts, ensuring compliance with donor intent and legal standards;
- Ensure accuracy, timeliness, and transparency in gift fund management and disbursement;
- Establish benchmarks and best practices for operational excellence in nonprofit financial management.
Strategic Planning and Governance
- Provide strategic financial analysis and scenario planning to guide executive and board decision-making;
- Partner with the Executive Director and board finance committee on investment management, endowment performance, and risk assessment;
- Support governance activities including board reporting, committee management, and fiduciary education.
Compliance and Risk Management
- Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, GAAP, and relevant state and federal requirements;
- Manage audit preparation, auditor relationships, and timely completion of audits with clean findings;
- Develop and implement risk management frameworks to mitigate financial, operational, and regulatory risks;
- Safeguard confidential information and maintain robust fraud prevention and data security protocols.
Leadership and Team Development
- Lead, mentor, and manage finance and operations staff, promoting accountability, professional development, and cross-functional collaboration;
- Act as a transformational leader who builds staff capacity and fosters a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and excellence;
- Serve as a visible leader and partner across the university, ensuring open communication and effective collaboration.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university is required.
- At least 10 years of progressive experience in nonprofit financial management, foundation operations, or related sector is also required.
Preferred Qualifications
- An advanced degree (MBA, CPA) from an accredited college or university is preferred;
- CPA or CFA designation is strongly preferred;
- Demonstrated success in evaluating, implementing, and managing new financial/accounting systems as a change leader;
- Expertise in fund accounting, GAAP, and nonprofit audit practices; higher education or foundation experience strongly preferred;
- Knowledge of investment analysis and portfolio management;
- Proven ability to redesign and maintain charts of accounts, financial processes, and operational systems.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing and developing teams;
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with staff, leadership, board members, donors, and external partners;
- Proficiency with financial systems, databases, investment tracking tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
SENIOR MANAGEMENT:
Endia DeCordova, MBA
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Endia DeCordova serves as Morgan State University’s vice president for Institutional Advancement and executive director for the Morgan State University Foundation, Inc.
DeCordova oversees operations for the University’s Division of Institutional Advancement, which includes the Offices of Alumni Relations and Strategic Engagement, Development, and Public Relations and Strategic Communications, in addition to the MSU Foundation and Advancement Services. She also serves as a member of the University President’s senior administrative team.
Prior to coming to Morgan, DeCordova served as vice chancellor for Advancement at Rutgers University, Camden, where she worked on behalf of the institution and the Rutgers University Foundation to advance the campus’s priorities through annual giving, major and principal giving, alumni engagement, and corporate and foundation relations. Prior to her time at Rutgers, she served as assistant vice president for Development and Strategic Initiatives for the University of Connecticut Foundation, Inc.
In all, she brings nearly two decades of leadership experience in institutional advancement, primarily in the higher education sector, with positions held at Mitchell College as vice president of Advancement, Georgian Court University as assistant vice president of Development, and Manchester Community College as dean of Institutional Advancement and Community Engagement.
Among the honors she has accumulated throughout her professional career includes being named a 100 Women of Color Honoree (Connecticut and Massachusetts), a Hartford Business Journal 40 under 40 awardee, and the West Indian Social Club Educator of the Year (2016).
As a class of 1999 graduate of Morgan State University DeCordova received her B.S. in Communications/Public Relations. She would matriculate on receiving her Master of Business Administration, Marketing Management from the University of Hartford’s Barney School of Business.
WHY IS THIS A COMPELLING POSITION?
Morgan State University stands out as an employer because of its strong commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity. The university ensures that all individuals have access to programs and employment without discrimination based on race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected category. This creates a respectful and supportive environment where employees can feel a genuine sense of belonging.
In addition to its value-driven culture, Morgan State offers a wide range of comprehensive benefits designed to support your health, financial security, and personal growth.
These include medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage, life and accident insurance, flexible spending accounts, state retirement and optional investment plans, tuition waivers, generous earned leave, and access to the State Employees Credit Union.
LOCATION:
Baltimore, Maryland, is a major East Coast economic and cultural hub known for its strategic location, diverse industries, and rich historical significance. As Maryland’s largest city, Baltimore plays a vital role in regional commerce, education, healthcare, and innovation. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City, combined with access to major highways, ports, and rail lines, makes it an attractive location for businesses seeking connectivity and growth. The city is home to globally recognized institutions like Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Medicine, which anchor Baltimore’s reputation as a leader in research, life sciences, and healthcare innovation. Additionally, the city’s economic landscape is supported by thriving sectors such as financial services, cybersecurity, education, technology, and logistics. Baltimore’s diverse workforce, bolstered by a strong network of universities and colleges—including Morgan State University, a premier HBCU—offers businesses access to top talent across industries.
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY IN THE NEWS:
September 19, 2025
NSF-Funded Projects Propel Morgan State’s Continued Rise as a Recognized Public Impact Research University
September 16, 2025
Life and Legacy of President Emeritus Earl S. Richardson Honored With Morgan State University Board of Regents Resolution
September 12, 2025
Morgan State University Athletics Appoints Two New Head Coaches
September 8, 2025
Morgan State University Psychology Professor Dr. Jocelyn Turner-Musa Elected American Psychological Association Fellow
September 2, 2025
Morgan State University Makes History as the First HBCU to Achieve Accreditation from the International Dyslexia Association
August 28, 2025
Morgan State University Secures $1.75M Grant From Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to Plan Launch of Public, Nonprofit M.D. Medical School
August 20, 2025
LinkedIn Names Morgan State University Among Top 10 HBCUs in the U.S.
INTERVIEW PROCESS:
ZRG provides our global Clients with a rigorous and patented assessment platform grounded in data and analytics. Our interview process includes the following:
1. Initial interviews with ZRG
2. ZRG presentation of candidates to Client for calibration and discussion; Client selects candidates for consideration and initial interviews
3. Candidates complete ZRG’s on-line assessment
4. Finalist candidates advance to second and third round interviews with broader leadership team
5. Formal referencing
6. Offer extended
ABOUT ZRG PARTNERS:
ZRG is a global talent advisory firm that is changing the way companies hire and manage talent. ZRG’s data-driven approach to executive and professional search has been changing the way clients think about how to find top talent. The company’s digital Zi platform combines talent intelligence, candidate insights, and process improvement to dramatically deliver executive searches quicker and with proven better results.
Jerel Booker
Principal
jbooker@zrgpartners.com
Jerel Booker is a seasoned executive specializing in talent strategy, organizational growth, and executive search, with over two decades of leadership experience across higher education, K–12, and nonprofit sectors. Most recently, he served as Associate Managing Principal and Chief Operating Officer at TM² Executive Search, where he conducted national executive searches and oversaw enterprise operations—aligning people, processes, and performance to drive organizational growth and client impact. Previously, Jerel held senior executive roles in government, education, and nonprofit leadership, including Assistant Deputy Commissioner at the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, where he oversaw internal division operations, staffing, and institutional statutory compliance within core functions. His leadership spans core operational domains including finance, human capital, technology, contracts, marketing, and enterprise risk management.
Link to complete bio for Jerel Booker.
Dakota Doman
Managing Director
ddoman@zrgpartners.com
Dakota Doman is a dynamic and visionary executive with more than 15 years of leadership experience spanning higher education administration, executive search, organizational strategy, and governmental affairs. He is a Managing Director in ZRG’s Education Practice, bringing a comprehensive perspective on leadership needs within academic institutions, especially Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Before ZRG, Dakota was the President and Managing Principal of TM2 Executive Search, the only search firm founded to provide executive talent solutions to HBCUs, where his work focused on inclusive leadership recruitment, strategic talent pipelines, and governance transformation, contributing to successful placements in C-suite and senior academic roles across the country.
Under his leadership, TM2 was nationally recognized for reshaping the executive hiring landscape for historically underserved institutions, and Dakota was featured in the February Black History Month edition of Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, a national publication spotlighting leader advancing equity and access in higher education.
Prior to leading TM2, Dakota was unanimously appointed by the Texas Southern University (TSU) Board of Regents as the Acting Chief Executive Officer. He joined TSU initially as Chief of Staff and Chief Governmental Affairs Officer, where he spearheaded critical university initiatives including legislative engagement at municipal, state, and federal levels, Title III program development, institutional effectiveness, strategic partnerships, and transformative planning.
Link to complete bio for Dakota Doman.
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