EastTennessee State University announced today that John King has been named associate vice president for Advancement and executive director of the ETSU National Alumni Association, effective November 1.
King brings over 20 years of senior-level experience in fundraising and alumni relations to this role. A native of Erwin, King is a proud two-time alumnus of ETSU, having earned aBachelor of Science degree in mass communications in 1988 and a Master of Science in digital marketing in 2022. During his time as an undergraduate student, he was a member of the men’s varsity basketball team.
Since joining the Advancement team in March 2017, King has played an integral role in cultivating donor engagement and fostering strong alumni relationships across the university. He played an important role during the Campaign for ETSU, a university initiative that concluded in 2022 and resulted in the team raising $163 million toward a goal of $120 million. Over the past 10 months, King has been serving as interim vice president for Advancement and CEO of the ETSU Foundation.
“John’s leadership and dedication during this time of transition have been instrumental in maintaining momentum across all areas of university advancement,” President Dr. Brian Noland said. “Under his direction, the university’s Annual Giving program has expanded, breaking previous records for the number of gifts received and funds raised. I have no doubt that he will find new and creative ways to deepen relationships with our alumni and strengthen ties amongst members of the Buccaneer family.”
King is married to Keyla Torbett King, a 1989 graduate of ETSU’s Dental Hygiene program, and they have two adult children. In his new role as executive director of the ETSU National Alumni Association, King will replace Whitney Goetz, who recently announced her departure from the university in order to spend more time with family.
