Shontel Grumhaus has been named SMU’s new senior vice president for Development and External Affairs, effective May 1. A veteran development and fundraising executive, Grumhaus brings more than 18 years of experience driving transformative philanthropy in higher education.

“Shontel has shown time and again the ability to translate bold ambition into tangible results, all for the betterment of students and research. Her talents and experience are a perfect fit for SMU and for our drive to further elevate the University across academics, research, and athletics,” President Jay Hartzell said. “As a leader, she is thoughtful and smart, and she works seamlessly with academic partners to align philanthropic strategies with research excellence and student success. It is a true pleasure to welcome her to our leadership team and to the Hilltop.” 

In her new role, Grumhaus will lead SMU’s comprehensive development, alumni engagement and external affairs efforts, advancing the University’s strategic priorities and strengthening relationships with alumni, donors and partners.

“My family and I are thrilled to join the SMU Mustang community and immerse ourselves in the vibrant Dallas region,” Grumhaus said. “SMU’s leadership and community are deeply committed to excellence and have a bold vision for the future, and I am honored to step into this role in support of the University’s ambitions. I look forward to contributing to this exciting next chapter, and to all that lies ahead.”

Grumhaus currently serves as senior associate vice chancellor for development and chief strategist for schools and units at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she leads advancement strategy across the university and manages a team of development professionals. In this role, she partners with deans and academic leadership to drive large-scale fundraising initiatives that support institutional goals.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are extremely pleased and excited to welcome Shontel to SMU,” said the Hon. Jeanne L. Phillips ’76, member of the SMU Board of Trustees and head of the Development and External Affairs Committee. “We are confident that her vast experience and abilities will strengthen our advancement efforts, deepen relationships with donors and help position the University for success into the future.”

Previously, Grumhaus served as senior associate dean for advancement at the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, where she and her team surpassed a $400 million campaign goal. The campaign included securing $75 million to support construction of a new academic building, which was matched by an equal commitment from the North Carolina legislature.

Prior to her time at UNC Kenan-Flagler, Grumhaus oversaw the major gifts team for UNC’s College of Arts and Sciences. During her six-year tenure, she restructured and led a team of 13 major gift officers and successfully launched a $750 million campaign, significantly strengthening the college’s fundraising capacity and long-term philanthropic pipeline.

“I have known Shontel for many years and believe she will be an exceptional partner to donors and alumni who care deeply about SMU’s future,” said Kathy Crow ’94, member of the SMU Board of Trustees and executive boards of the Cox School of Business and Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development. “Her leadership, paired with Jay’s vision, will strengthen the University’s ability to engage our community in the important work ahead.”

An alumna of UNC-Chapel Hill, Grumhaus holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Accounting. She has spent her career serving her alma mater and expanding opportunities for students, faculty and donors through philanthropy.

Grumhaus currently resides in Chapel Hill with her husband, Whitney, and their son, Lincoln.