Ana Rau

Ana Rau, MPA serves as Chief Development Officer for the College of Arts and Sciences at Western Michigan University. A graduate of Grand Valley State University, she holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management, with an emphasis in Budget and Finance.

Ana brings more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, including over a decade dedicated to fundraising. Throughout her career, she has developed deep expertise in donor engagement and outreach, fundraising strategy, and relationship management. She views philanthropy as a powerful catalyst for meaningful, systemic change and has helped alumni and donors contribute millions of dollars to campaigns at the local, national, and international levels. At the heart of her work is a steadfast commitment to helping others and advancing missions that matter.

At Western Michigan University, Ana partners with alumni and donors to advance the university’s mission, “so that all may learn.” If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about giving back to WMU—particularly within the College of Arts and Sciences—please contact her at @email.

Beyond her professional role, Ana serves as Chair of the Black Faculty and Staff Council at Western Michigan University, supporting a campus culture where all individuals feel a sense of belonging.

Ana’s Clifton Strengths Top 10: Achiever, Developer, Positivity, Individualization, Futuristic, Woo, Communication, Activator, Maximizer, and Strategic.