UMD announces new Associate VP for Philanthropy

UMD’s new Associate Vice President for Philanthropy, Julia Diggins

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of Minnesota Duluth(UMD) has announced its pick for the new Associate Vice President for philanthropy.

Julia Diggins has been selected for the role.

Diggins has nearly 20 years of experience in higher education, most recently working as an interim president and vice chancellor for university advancement at UW-Eau Claire.

“Julia brings tremendous energy, experience, and passion to this role,” UMD Chancellor Charles T. Nies, PhD, said. “The University has an amazing story, and we are fortunate to have such great partners with a strong spirit of giving to support our efforts. I am looking forward to Julia’s contributions as we continue to elevate UMD through her role as associate vice president for philanthropy.”

At UMD, Diggins will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team and will lead the institution’s division of University Advancement and Alumni Relations.

Diggins’ appointment takes effect December 29, 2025.