MCS Names New Chief Advancement Officer

Carnegie Mellon University’s Jeff Miracle has been named the new Chief Advancement Officer for the Mellon College of Science, effective Sept. 2, 2025.

“Jeff’s bold vision and strategic insight will strengthen our culture of philanthropy and engagement,” said Barbara Shinn-Cunningham, Glen de Vries Dean of MCS. “An accomplished advancement professional, Jeff brings deep experience in individual giving, corporate and foundation relations, and government partnerships. Just as important, his genuine warmth and empathy make him an ideal partner in transforming the college.”

With more than 18 years of experience in development operations at major research universities, Miracle has a proven track record of building high-performing teams and driving strategic growth.

“Jeff has been a vital part of University Advancement and a key driver of the success of the Make Possible campaign,” said Pam Eager, senior associate vice president for University Advancement. “His quiet leadership has shaped the careers of dozens of gift officers and touched the lives of countless donors. I look forward to seeing the way he partners with Mellon College of Science leaders and advancement staff to elevate philanthropy and equip the college with resources it needs to accelerate advances in foundational research.”

Miracle will play a pivotal role in building partnerships that empower researchers, students and programs to thrive. He will lead the team that supports college’s efforts in alumni engagement, corporate and foundation relations and strategic fundraising.

“CMU's future of science initiative, the Richard King Mellon Hall of Sciences, an outstanding new dean and MCS's talented faculty, staff, students and alumni make joining the Mellon College of Science a very exciting opportunity,” Miracle said. “I’m excited to begin developing a shared vision for philanthropy with Dean Shinn-Cunningham and earning the trust of others through hard work, follow-through, collegiality and fundraising know-how.”

A current priority for MCS is the Richard King Mellon Hall of Science, a transformative facility designed to spark collaboration between science and the arts. Located at the corner of Forbes and Craig, the building will help usher in a new era of data-driven research, creative expression and cross-disciplinary education. It also will serve as a gateway between CMU and the surrounding community, removing barriers and fostering connection.

“Advancements in technology and innovation are increasing at a rapid pace,” Miracle said. “It is vital for us to recognize that the knowledge and understanding gained through the foundational sciences has served as the groundwork for many of these achievements and will continue to do so moving forward.

In addition, the university is celebrating its 125th anniversary with CMU125: The Power of Possibilities. Special events will take place throughout the fall, particularly during Homecoming, Nov. 6–8.

“Some of my immediate priorities include genuinely getting to know as many members of the MCS community as possible,” Miracle said. “Along with forging partnerships with department heads, faculty and staff, I look forward to seeing everyone who returns for our 125th anniversary celebration.”

Miracle will play a pivotal role in building partnerships that empower researchers, students, and programs to thrive. He will lead the team that supports the college’s efforts in alumni engagement, corporate and foundation relations, and strategic fundraising. He said that funding and support for scientific discovery are more important than ever.

Miracle most recently served as executive director of development at Carnegie Mellon, where he led a team of gift officers and managed a diverse portfolio of leadership annual, major, and principal gift prospects. He also partnered with central and school-based teams to advance institutional priorities, managed the Andrew Carnegie Society board, and led parent fundraising through the Parents Leadership Circle.

Previously, Miracle was director of development and Alumni Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, where he oversaw all advancement strategies and led the alumni association board. Prior to that, he shaped advancement policies and executed multi-donor campaigns as manager of advancement operations.

Miracle holds a Ph.D. in Administrative and Policy Studies in Education and an M.Ed. in Higher Education Management from the University of Pittsburgh, and a B.A. in Japanese and Business Management from Brigham Young University.