Dameon Shaw, the Vice President for University Advancement, External Relations, and Information Security at Mississippi Valley State University, is pleased to announce the hiring of Michael Colston as the Assistant Vice President for University Advancement.
Colston brings over a decade of experience in revenue generation, strategic marketing, and client relationship management. He comes to MVSU after serving in numerous roles in the Marketing, Communication, and Advancement division and the University Foundation Office at Alabama A&M University.
“I am thrilled to have Michael join our team. He was responsible for several improvements at his previous institution. We believe he will enhance our area while also playing a pivotal role in bringing a fresh perspective to the university as a whole,” said Shaw. Michael is also a product of Mississippi Valley State University and has a keen understanding of the university,” he added.
Colston is a native of Shaw, Mississippi, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from MVSU (2011). He is the Vice President and Diversity Chairperson of the Association of Fundraising Professionals North Alabama Chapter. Moreover, he is active in other professional development organizations, such as the Council for Advancement and Support of Education and African American Development Officers.
“I could not be more pleased to be back home working at Valley as a member of the university advancement team. I am excited to be here, and I look forward to supporting Mr. Shaw and the university’s students and alumni in any way I can, especially as we work to help the university succeed,” Colston said.”
During his time at Alabama A&M, Colston increased the number of currently used and endowed scholarships, created new university partnerships within the community, and enhanced departmental procedures. He was instrumental in developing and implementing innovative strategies leading to record-setting fundraising and support for the university. This includes in fiscal year 2021 raising $11.2 million, over double the record they set during the 2019 fiscal year.
In partnership with Straight to Ale Brewing, Colston created the first branded beer in history for an HBCU. The beer, aptly named Alma Mater, was released in May 2021. He has spent time working in financial management throughout Mississippi and Missouri.