Doug McCullough has been named acting chief advancement officer at the University of Pittsburgh, a new role that will see him lead all philanthropic efforts for the Division of Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement (PAE). The appointment is part of a series of leadership changes within the division.
McCullough joined Pitt in 2018 as vice chancellor for individual giving, schools and centers. He has played a key role in major fundraising initiatives, including helping secure the 2022 gift to name the David C. Frederick Honors College. His prior experience includes leadership roles at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as development positions at Ohio University and DePaul University.
In his new position, McCullough will also serve on Pitt’s External Relations leadership team.
“Throughout his time here and in his previous roles at Penn, Ohio University and DePaul University, Doug has consistently created environments where people feel valued, supported and positioned to do their best work,” said Kevin Washo, senior vice chancellor for external relations. “I am confident that he is the right person to lead this powerhouse of a team, and I’m grateful to Chancellor Gabel for her support and leadership as we build a structure that will advance our fundraising efforts.”
As McCullough takes on these new responsibilities, Danni Piccolo has been promoted to vice chancellor for individual giving, schools and centers. Piccolo joined Pitt in 2017 and previously served as associate vice chancellor for individual giving. She brings additional development experience from her work with Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh and Chatham University.
“Danni is a respected professional in Pittsburgh’s philanthropic arena who has built strong collaborative relationships with leaders across the institution,” Washo said. “I’m certain she will continue to foster those partnerships as she steps into this expanded role.”
Jodi Weisfield was also promoted within PAE to become vice chancellor for health sciences and clinical programs advancement. Previously serving as senior executive director of development for individual giving at Pitt’s School of Business and School of Computing and Information, Weisfield will now oversee fundraising supporting six health sciences schools along with clinical departments and affiliated hospital foundations.
“Jodi is an exceptional fundraiser and teambuilder who brings valuable leadership experience to this role, and I know she is looking forward to learning from and building upon this team’s already meaningful work,” Washo stated.
Both Piccolo and Weisfield will report directly to McCullough on the PAE leadership team.
Tom Crawford—who had served as interim leader since last April while leading corporate and foundation relations—will transition fully into his prior position as senior advisor.
“Tom stepped up to lead the division during a critical time and has kept our momentum strong,” said Washo. “His steady hand through this period has been invaluable, and we’re fortunate to have him continuing to contribute his expertise and strategic insight as senior advisor.”
Washo highlighted that these internal promotions reflect confidence in existing staff: “It is important to me to recognize the talent we have within our own ranks,” he said. “Promoting these leaders from within is a testament to the strength and success of our philanthropic endeavors.”
