AVP development

Jen Laurette is a seasoned advancement professional with more than 20 years of experience. As AVP Development, Jen leads the strategy and execution of the Bringing Worlds Together fundraising campaign and the implementation of our institutional fundraising strategy, in addition to leading the fundraising, donor relations, and prospect development teams.

She began her career at her alma mater, the University of King’s College, where she earned her BA. Jen has held senior development roles at Dalhousie University, UNICEF, and the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University. In 2016, she obtained her Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) certification and has completed programs in executive leadership, strategic planning, and project execution.

Originally from Nova Scotia, Jen spent 12 years working in Ontario before returning to her home province in 2021 to join the Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) as Director of Philanthropy. In October 2022, she rejoined Dalhousie University as the Senior Director of Principal Gifts, where she led the development and implementation of the university’s principal giving program. In January 2023, Jen assumed the role of acting Assistant Vice-President Development, and was appointed to the role permanently in June 2023.