In his new capacity, Hamlin will work with the University's schools and regional development staff to achieve and exceed the goal for scholarship endowment in the ongoing $1.3 billion Campaign for Washington University.

"Jim brings with him a wealth of experience and a strong record of achievement in higher education," Blasingame said. "He is an outstanding person who will be a great asset to the University. I am delighted that he is joining our team."

Before joining the University, Hamlin served as vice president of college advancement for Central College. During his tenure at there, from 1993-2001, Hamlin created the college's first annual fund program, the Central Fund, which raises over $1.2 million a year for budget support.

Overall giving to Central tripled over a six-year period, to $6.4 million in 2001. He directed the Campaign for Central, the college's first comprehensive campaign, launched in 1999, and helped raise $28 million in commitments in its first two years.

Hamlin also served as director of major and planned gifts at Hollins College, from 1988-1993. At Pennsylvania State University, he was associate director of planned giving from 1986-88 and senior development officer for its College of Engineering from 1984-86.

He was director of development at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville from 1980-84 and director of annual fund programs at the University of Illinois Foundation from 1978-1980.