ROCHESTER, Mich. -- Oakland University Director of Athletics Steve Waterfield has announced Ben Fielder will join the athletics staff as the Associate Athletic Director for Development.

"I am extremely happy that Ben is joining the athletics department and serving on my senior staff," said Waterfield. "Ben's pride in Oakland University, belief in Oakland Athletics' potential for even greater success, and energetic, collaborative approach to work make him an excellent fit for the Associate Athletic Director for Development position."

Fielder will serve as a member of the department's senior leadership team and be responsible for identifying and cultivating major gift prospects including gifts for annual, endowment, capital and sports specific initiatives. Fielder will serve as a primary athletics department liaison to University Advancement on current and future fundraising initiatives, plus work directly with Oakland's 18 varsity teams in meeting athletics fundraising goals. He will also oversee the Golden Grizzlies Champions Club Advisory Board and related initiatives.

"My family and I are thrilled to join the Oakland University Athletics family," said Fielder. "As an Oakland alumnus and passionate fan, it is an honor to be asked to join the great staff that Steve has put together. I am eager to hit the ground running, collaborating and engaging with the teams, coaches, alumni and supporters of Oakland Athletics."

Fielder is currently the Director of Philanthropy in the University Advancement department at Oakland, where he is responsible for engagement, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of 150 prospects. He yielded a 50 percent or higher grant rate on his yearly proposals while submitting over 12 proposals at over $50,000. Prior to Oakland, Fielder spent seven years in the Office of Admissions at Eastern Michigan University.

"I look forward to working with Ben to create an athletics development program that strengthens the athletics department's connection to current donors and fosters connections with new donors," said Waterfield. "Ben's optimistic leadership will transform athletics development and positively impact scores of current and future Oakland University student-athletes."

Fielder earned his bachelor's degree from Oakland in musical theatre and master's degree from Eastern Michigan in higher education and student affairs. He and his wife Kathleen reside in Clarkston, Mich. with their daughters Mackenzie and Addison, and are expecting their third child in June.

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