Leslie Pendleton, Ph.D., recently joined the University of Florida College of Education as the executive director of advancement.
An alumna of the college, Pendleton has returned to a thriving EduGator community, eager to work alongside dedicated faculty, staff, alumni, donors and friends to support the college’s core purpose of preparing future educators and activating research for the betterment of society.
“I look forward to building meaningful partnerships that expand opportunities for students, advance groundbreaking research, and inspire continued investment in the college’s mission,” Pendleton shared.
Along with leading the college’s advancement efforts, Pendleton will expand her experience in building and strengthening teams as she assembles a refreshed alumni and donor relations department. Her gaze is focused on the future, collaborating alongside Dean Glenn Good to bring resources to further the college’s contributions and impact.
Pendleton has a deep connection to the Gator Nation. She earned a doctorate in higher education administration from the college in 2016 and is celebrating 20 years of dedication to the University of Florida this year.
Notably, she served as the founding director of the Machen Florida Opportunity Scholars Program from 2009 to 2022. In this role, she led the university in building a successful program to support, fund and graduate first-generation college students. Most recently, Pendleton led UF Advancement’s Family & Campus Development team.
“Each of these experiences has strengthened my belief in the transformative power of both education and philanthropy,” stated Pendleton.
Pendleton and her new team will immediately begin developing and strengthening invaluable connections between UF and the college’s alumni, donors, friends and partners. Working in concert with Dean Glenn Good, college leadership and the entire EduGator community, Pendleton will support the college’s goals in alignment with the university’s land-grant mission.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Pendleton back to the College,” stated Dean Glenn Good. “She’s an exceptional, proven professional and a wonderful person. Our extended EduGator community will be thrilled with what Leslie and her team create and deliver.”