Michael Ward

Bio

Michael T. Ward, Executive Director of the North Carolina Textile Foundation at NC State’s Wilson College of Textiles, is a development professional with more than 20 years of experience in higher education advancement. Michael joined the Foundation in March of 2016 as Director of Development, overseeing all aspects of development to include major/principal gift development, annual giving, alumni engagement, communications and stewardship.  In 2018, he led the cultivation and solicitation strategy resulting in the $28 million dollar naming gift for the Wilson College of Textiles. His unique approach was profiled in the 2020 book, Start with Heart: The Secret Power of Emotions to Catalyze Fundraising Results for Individuals, Teams, and Organizations. In July 2019, Michael was appointed Executive Director of the North Carolina Textile Foundation. A native of Raleigh, NC and graduate of Appalachian State University, he began his career in athletics fundraising at Northern Illinois University, then worked for East Carolina University in a variety of development roles and Clemson University.  Michael and his wife Alison are the proud parents of Michaela and Watts Ward.