URI names Wakefield resident,
University veteran to Convocation Center post

KINGSTON, R.I. -- September 5, 2000 -- The University of Rhode Island has appointed a Wakefield resident as its new assistant director for the Convocation Center Campaign, the private, $15 million fund drive for the largest building project in the history of URI.

Michaela Mooney brings 13 years of experience at URI in roles as a fund-raiser, admissions official and freshman orientation director to her new post. Prior to her appointment, Mooney served for two years as an assistant director of the URI Annual Fund, the premier private fund-raising campaign at URI.

The Pawtucket native and graduate of the former Pawtucket West High School succeeds Louise Rosarbo who has been promoted to director of the Convocation Center Campaign.

A graduate of Wheaton College, Mooney holds a master's degree from URI in college student personnel.

"Michaela brings a wide range of skills to this very important position," said Robert M. Beagle, URI vice president for the Division of Advancement. "Among her strengths are a winning personality, ability to sell URI and a great rapport with our alumni and friends. We are happy to have her working on URI's largest private giving campaign."

She is responsible for working with volunteer committee members in soliciting individuals and businesses for donations.

Mooney said her work in various offices at URI has prepared her well for the job. "What really prepared me is my work in admissions," she said. "The knowledge of the University I gained in my work there is helping immeasurably."

Whether working in fund-raising, admissions or with new students, it is important to remember "that 98 percent of it is dealing well with people," Mooney said. "It's getting back to people, returning calls and letting them know you care. People give to people."

Mooney said she is excited about the job because of the great challenge of working on a campaign for the $54 million Convocation Center. The complex will house basketball games, University events, concerts and cultural programs, and is scheduled to open in the fall of 2002. It is being funded by state appropriations, bond funds and private donations. The site to the west of Meade Stadium is currently being prepared for the start of construction this fall.

"I am glad to be a part of it. This is going to be the most visible building on campus," she said.

She said the campaign has tremendous momentum, thanks to the dynamic leadership of Rosarbo. "She is a powerhouse," said sports-lover Mooney. "I have been following URI basketball since the mid-1970s."

Mooney and her husband Tom, also a graduate of URI, have a daughter, Meg, a junior at South Kingstown High School and member of the field hockey team.

For Information: Dave Lavallee 401-874-2116