Year 1 in the Books: VP of University Relations and Development at California University Long Beach, Dan Montoya Shares his Leadership Journey

The journey to becoming a Vice President is shaped by personal aspirations, a commitment to making a difference, and, in our interview today, a desire to bring new faces to the leadership table. In this Coach’s Corner, Dan Montoya, Vice President of University Relations and Development at California State University Long Beach, shares his first-year experience and the strategies that propelled their advancement program forward.

?Q: How did you know you wanted to seek a VP role, and why do you think the leadership had confidence that you could do the job?

Progressing through diverse fundraising roles within higher education settings enriched my professional journey. Recognizing the transformative potential personally and wanting to inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue leadership roles in higher education became a compelling drive. One of my favorite professional development teachers, Jim Rohn, said, “I used to say, I sure hope things will change. Then I learned the only way things will change for me is when I change.” This has compelled me to step into the VP role, hoping to make a difference and pave the way for others.

?Q: What did you want to accomplish in your first year? How did you decide what was important? From your previous roles, what different skill muscles have you had to exercise in this role?

In my inaugural year, I set out to build credibility with my team, integrate into the executive university team, establish organizational identity, and acquaint myself with the foundation board. The strategic prioritization of these elements was pivotal in aligning our efforts with the ongoing comprehensive campaign. Leveraging my diverse development experiences, I fostered a collaborative culture, navigated the nuances of various departments, and paid attention to the challenges at all organizational levels.

Q: What did you focus on in the first year that made the most significant difference?

?The paramount focus in my first year was cultivating a positive organizational culture. Collaborating closely with my AVP team, we co-created a cultural model that involved every team member. Formulating our Mission, Vision, Values, and Ways of Working significantly shaped the envisioned culture and instilled a sense of ownership and cohesion among the team.

Q: What has been the biggest challenge you have had to deal with?

Addressing the imperative for a consistent philanthropic pipeline and instilling a culture of giving required an intense focus on my part. This included establishing infrastructure, staffing alignment, and shifting the campus toward a greater understanding of a philanthropic culture. The gradual yet persistent progress ensures a sustainable foundation for the university's fundraising efforts.

Q: Was there a seminal event, time, or moment when you felt the staff, senior leadership, and board jumped on board with your vision?

Numerous instances converged to align the team with my vision:

?·????? Consistently embodying values such as health, family, and career, both rhetoric and actions, cultivating trust within the staff.

·????? Collaborating with the university's executive team showcased unwavering dedication to the university's leadership.

·????? Facilitating a training session on pipeline development led by KDD Philanthropy, which involved the entire division and 49er Board, proved instrumental.

·????? Fostering a shared understanding of everyone's role in advancing our vision.

Q: Who has been most important to your success?

My success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of my executive team, particularly the exceptional contribution of my AVPs. Insightful advice from donors and foundation board members, strategic partnerships, valuable collaboration with you, Don, and the unwavering support and trust extended by the university president has been indispensable. I also want to underscore how important it is to find an alignment of mission and university leadership with my leadership and experience. I have been fortunate to have found such a great match.

Q: What is the most significant external environmental change that has impacted your work?

Navigating challenges posed by state budget constraints and adapting to the post-COVID landscape in the CSU system necessitated entrepreneurial thinking. Successfully transitioning my division into a hybrid work environment met these challenges and enhanced productivity while providing staff with valuable flexibility and autonomy.

Q: What advice do you have for new VPs and those early in their tenure?

Congratulations on assuming the VP role!

Embrace the growth that accompanies stepping out of your comfort zone. Foster a culture of continuous learning from your team, communicate changes transparently, and diligently work to build trust with the executive team.

Consider seeking mentorship or engaging an executive coach for valuable insights. Prioritize personal time to maintain a balanced life, recognizing that life's richness lies in moments and experiences beyond work.

Dan’s strategic acumen, principled leadership, and commitment to fostering positive change have quickly elevated the work at CSULB’s advancement program. From the prioritization of organizational culture-- to the intricacies of building and managing a philanthropic pipeline-- and to a focus on strengthening relationships across campus-- have been the foundation of his success. To those aspiring to serve in these roles, the advice provided serves as a compass, guiding you through the uncharted landscape of a VP’s early tenure. May this article inspire you to embrace change, cultivate collaborative cultures, and navigate complex cultures with resilience and a vision toward long-term growth and success.

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