Leadership Transition in University Advancement
May 4, 2026
Dear Stony Brook Community,
I am writing to share the news that Scott Barrett has announced he will be departing from Stony Brook University effective June 5. Scott has been serving as interim vice president for advancement and interim executive director of the Stony Brook Foundation, in addition to his senior associate vice president for advancement and chief development officer roles.
Since joining Stony Brook in 2022, Scott has been a driving force behind our most ambitious philanthropic efforts. During his tenure, the advancement team has reached historic milestones, raising $128.7 million in philanthropy this fiscal year alone. Most notably, Scott helped lead the university to the successful completion of the three-year New York State endowment matching challenge, securing $175 million in endowment gifts and pledges and forever elevating Stony Brook University.
When combined with the state’s matching funds and the landmark $500 million Simons Infinity Investment, these efforts have catalyzed a transformative period of growth for our institution. Under Scott's leadership, we have seen our endowment grow from $392 million in 2023 to more than $1 billion today—a milestone that ensures Stony Brook’s future is bright and that we have a strong foundation to achieve our aspirational goals.
Also under Scott’s leadership, the university has expanded its investment in alumni engagement, resulting in two years' consecutive growth in alumni giving and increased participation in Stony Brook activities. Scott’s skill, vision, and strong connections have been invaluable assets to the entire Stony Brook community. I am grateful for his service and for his dedication and commitment to our university and our hundreds of thousands of alumni and friends across the country and around the world. While Scott will be greatly missed, we wish him much success in his future endeavors.
I have been planning the search for the permanent vice president for advancement and executive director of the Stony Brook Foundation since the fall with the intention of launching it after the endowment matching challenge concluded. With the incredible outcome delivered by Scott and the entire advancement team, that international search will commence as scheduled later this month.
To ensure continued momentum and continuity during this transition, three executive leaders in University Advancement will step into interim roles: Brian Thornton, associate vice president for marketing and constituent experience, will serve as interim vice president for advancement, Deborah Lowen-Klein, senior associate vice president for advancement, will serve as interim executive director of the Stony Brook Foundation, and Danielle Holton, associate vice president for medicine advancement, will serve as interim chief development officer.
Please join me in thanking Scott for his many contributions to Stony Brook and in thanking Brian, Deborah, and Danielle for taking on these important interim leadership roles.
Sincerely,
Andrea Goldsmith
President