Chris Hellstrom has joined Monmouth University as the director of corporate and foundation relations in the Division of University Advancement, effective Aug. 19.
Hellstrom is responsible for planning and executing the University’s fundraising program to secure philanthropic support from corporations and foundations. He oversees the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of corporate and foundation donors, and initiates, strengthens, and manages strategic relationships with philanthropic partners. In his new role, Hellstrom also handles grant and funding proposals that advance the University’s academic priorities and works to build awareness of corporate and foundation grant-seeking activity in conjunction with the Office of Grants and Contracts at the University.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chris to our team and to Monmouth University,” said Wendy Parsons, associate vice president for development. “Chris’ career in fundraising and public affairs spans over two decades working in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. His experience will serve him well in his new role as he works with businesses and foundations to align their philanthropic interests with University priorities.”
Hellstrom brings extensive fundraising and public affairs experience to Monmouth, having served as the director of agency advancement for Project Hospitality, a social service organization in Staten Island, where he led a development team charged with managing major fundraising events as well as all press, events, government grants and private foundation requests.
“My wife and I recently moved with our two daughters to Colts Neck, New Jersey and I have found Monmouth University to be such a warm and welcoming environment,” said Hellstrom. “I look forward to working with the development team and the faculty to help advance the mission of Monmouth University.”
Earlier in his career, Hellstrom worked as the executive director of Staten Island Arts and before that as director of development for the Greenbelt Conservancy. In these roles, he managed fundraising events, grants, and development strategy. He also previously worked in the Office of New York City Mayor and represented the Oxford University Press for many years on college campuses in New York.
Hellstrom earned his B.A. in psychology and his M.A. in liberal studies from CUNY, Staten Island and his Doctorate of Arts in English from St. John’s University.