Date: June 16, 2022
Development Services Director Jeff Harre calls himself a “Jack of all Trades.” His self-appointed title doesn’t do justice to his role in Institutional Advancement (IA) as Development Services Director! Jeff joined IA two years ago, coming from his position as Director of Hospitality and bringing considerable skills and talent with him. He also is a VTS alum (class of 2019), so he has a unique insider’s perspective in IA.
Jeff is responsible for overseeing and implementing special projects like “A Seminary’s Saints and Stories” (located in the lower level of Addison) and the LEGO project (on display in the entryway to Aspinwall Hall). He coordinates VTS’ outreach and presence at venues such as General Convention, Lambeth, and the Episcopal Parish Network annual gathering. He also supports Shelagh Casey Brown for alumni regional gatherings and Convocation.
Another part of Jeff’s work revolves around high-level database management, setting permissions, and managing database protocols. He supervises Wendy Bermudez and has worked closely with her on gift processing and acknowledgment letters. Between them, they have improved and streamlined the gift processing system.
Once Lambeth is behind us in August, Jeff will turn his attention to our planned giving work. We plan to have a robust web presence with information on how to make a planned gift to VTS. The financial strength of our Seminary relies on those who have made planned gifs since our beginning. I am excited that Jeff will be able to help in our planned giving work.
I want to return to the “Jack of all trades” figure of speech. The remaining part of the reference is “master of none.” The original meaning of “Jack of all trades, master of none” signaled a compliment for anyone with broad knowledge and abilities. Such “Jacks of all trades” were considered experts in integration who could bring disciplines together in a practical manner. In that context, I agree that Jeff Harre is a “Jack of all Trades,” and am grateful for his supportive and dedicated work.
Linda L. Dienno
Vice President for Institutional Advancement