About SMC

Jeff Shilling

Vice President for Advancement

925-631-4509

jjs39@stmarys-ca.edu

Jeff joined Saint Mary's on February 3, 2025, as its new Vice President for Advancement. He brings to Saint Mary’s more than 25 years of advancement experience successfully implementing fundraising, alumni relations, and engagement strategies within the education and non-profit sectors.

Prior to joining SMC, Jeff served as the principal of Shilling Consulting Group, where he used his fundraising expertise to help clients maximize their fundraising and engagement strategies. Earlier in 2024, he was tapped to serve as interim Vice President of Advancement at the Keck Graduate Institute during a critical presidential transition.

As UC Santa Cruz’s Chief Development Officer for 11 years, Shilling managed a $3 million annual operating budget and oversaw the work of more than 40 development team members. He led the university’s principal gift fundraising, including comprehensive campaign development, planned giving, prospect development, and major gift teams.

More about Jeff Shilling can be found in the SMC news story announcing his appointment.