DETROIT - Wayne State University has named Chacona W. Johnson as vice president for Development and Alumni Affairs and president of the Wayne State University Foundation. Her appointment is effective May 3, 2014.

"As we work toward achieving our vision for Wayne State, strong connections with alumni and new philanthropic investments are critical to our success," said WSU President M. Roy Wilson. "Chacona has tremendous experience and skill in these areas, as well as a deep and abiding commitment to the university's mission and the city of Detroit. I am thrilled she has agreed to lead our fundraising efforts during this exciting time of growth and opportunity."

Johnson joined Wayne State in 2012 as associate vice president for principal gifts and executive vice president of the Wayne State University Foundation. She came to the university with an impressive and extensive background in fundraising, most notably at the University of Michigan where she held positions including director of principal gifts, chief of staff to the president and associate vice president for development. 

Johnson also has had a strong presence in the Detroit community throughout her career. She was President and CEO of the Detroit Public Schools Foundation and held several positions at New Detroit, Inc. She is a member of the board of directors of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Institute of Arts, CultureSource, the Arts League of Michigan, and the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation. 

Since the start of her tenure at Wayne State, Johnson has been a key contributor to the ongoing growth of the Division of Development and Alumni Affairs. Under her leadership, the university will continue its progress toward the public launch of its second comprehensive fundraising campaign.
 
"Wayne State has been a part of my life and my family for many years," said Johnson. "I believe deeply in the university's mission and the future of the city of Detroit. It will be a pleasure to contribute to both through partnerships with our alumni, friends and the local community."

Johnson earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Saint Augustine's College and a master's degree in public administration from The Ohio State University.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering more than 370 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 28,000 students.