A fresh perspective will be brought in to the division of Advancement and External Affairs on the first of Feb. when the newly appointed senior vice president begins his post. An extensive search for the position was initiated nationally and came to an end on Dec. 27, 2011 when President Joseph Nyre announced the appointment of Paul J. Sutera. Sutera has an accomplished resume that renders him extremely qualified for the job. He most recently worked at Quinnipiac University as the associate vice president for development. He was an integral member in advancement at Rice University in Houston, Texas for 10 years before he moved on to Quinnipiac.  Through these positions, he has gained experience in areas that will help him excel in this senior vice president position. The division of advancement and external affairs has six departments underneath it including alumni relations, annual giving, special events, campaign and major gifts, research and prospect management, as well as corporate, foundation and government relations. Sutera’s responsibilities will include improving these components to uphold the mission of the division and “enhance the College’s image, broaden its identity and build long-term, voluntary relationships between Iona College and its constituencies.” “Paul’s fundraising and leadership acumen is well suited to Iona’s current and future needs. He will play a pivotal role in leading advancement, alumni relations, communications and external affairs. He will also lead the strategy development and execution of Iona’s next major campaign in support of the college’s forthcoming strategic plan,” said Nyre. Sutera has a laundry list of involvements that include serving on the board of directors for the Wallingford Education Foundation and the Association of Fundraising Professionals. His accomplishments allow the Iona community to be confident in his abilities to be successful in this position.   “I look forward to a long and successful partnership with Iona College in this leadership position,” said Sutera. “I welcome the opportunity to share my experience and ideas with alumni, donors, friends and the entire Iona community.” So far this academic year has been one of change with a new President, a new strategic plan in the works and now this new addition to advancement and external affairs.