Johnson City, Tennessee, October 10, 2025
News Summary
East Tennessee State University (ETSU) has announced the appointment of John W. King as the new associate vice president for advancement. With over 20 years of experience in alumni relations and fundraising, King will officially begin his role on November 1. He has previously contributed significantly to the successful Campaign for ETSU, which raised $163 million. King’s appointment reflects confidence in his leadership as ETSU aims to enhance alumni engagement and community outreach.
John W. King Appointed Associate Vice President for Advancement at ETSU
Johnson City, Tennessee – East Tennessee State University (ETSU) announced the appointment of John W. King as associate vice president for advancement and executive director of the ETSU National Alumni Association, effective November 1.
King brings over 20 years of senior-level experience in fundraising and alumni relations to this new position. He has been with the ETSU advancement team since March 2017, where he has played an integral role in cultivating donor engagement and fostering relationships among alumni.
During his time at ETSU, King significantly contributed to the Campaign for ETSU, which surpassed expectations by raising $163 million against an aggressive goal of $120 million, concluding in 2022. In recent months, he served as the interim vice president for advancement and CEO of the ETSU Foundation, before now officially transitioning to his new role.
In this latest position, King will replace Whitney Goetz, who resigned to dedicate more time to her family. The appointment reflects confidence in King’s leadership, with ETSU President Brian Noland commending his contributions throughout the transition period.
Accomplishments and Expertise
Under King’s direction, the university’s annual giving program achieved remarkable success, breaking previous records for both the number of gifts received and total funds raised. His extensive expertise in advancement and alumni engagement is expected to further enhance the university’s outreach and connection to its graduates.
Background of John W. King
A native of Erwin, Tennessee, King is a proud two-time alumnus of ETSU, having completed his bachelor’s degree in mass communications in 1988 and a master’s degree in digital marketing in 2022. He was also a member of the men’s varsity basketball team during his undergraduate years, showcasing his deep ties to the university.
In his personal life, King is married to Keyla Torbett King, a 1989 graduate of ETSU’s dental hygiene program. The couple has two adult children, and they remain active members of their community, further embodying ETSU’s mission of engagement and service.
Future Prospects
As King steps into his role as associate vice president for advancement, the possibility of expanding outreach and increasing alumni participation remains a key focus. His proven track record in fundraising and dedication to alumni relations positions him well to lead ETSU into a new era of engagement and support.
FAQ Section
Who has been appointed as the associate vice president for advancement at ETSU?
John W. King has been appointed as the associate vice president for advancement and executive director of the ETSU National Alumni Association.
What experience does John W. King bring to his new role?
King has over 20 years of senior-level experience in fundraising and alumni relations.
When will John W. King officially start his new position?
John W. King will officially start his new position on November 1.
What significant campaign did John W. King contribute to at ETSU?
King contributed to the Campaign for ETSU, which raised $163 million against a goal of $120 million, concluding in 2022.
What significant role did King hold for the past 10 months at ETSU?
For the past 10 months, King served as the interim vice president for advancement and CEO of the ETSU Foundation.
Who did John W. King replace in his new role?
King replaces Whitney Goetz, who resigned to spend more time with her family.
Where is John W. King from?
John W. King is a native of Erwin, Tennessee.
Key Features of John W. King’s Appointment
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Position | Associate Vice President for Advancement |
| Effective Date | November 1 |
| Experience | Over 20 years in fundraising and alumni relations |
| Past Role | Interim Vice President for Advancement and CEO of ETSU Foundation |
| Campaign Achievement | Cultivated $163 million in the Campaign for ETSU |
| Education | Two-time alumnus of ETSU |
| Hometown | Erwin, Tennessee |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tom Kwasigroch Inducted into Tennessee Health Care Hall of Fame
ETSU College of Nursing Earns Historic Silver Recognition
Additional Resources
- Elizabethton Star: ETSU Foundation
- Wikipedia: ETSU
- ETSU Bucs: Football Match
- Google Search: ETSU Football vs Mercer
- Elizabethton Star: Fall Dean’s List
- Google Scholar: ETSU Fall Deans List
- Elizabethton Star: Spring Dean’s List
- Encyclopedia Britannica: ETSU Spring Deans List
- Herald Courier: Local Business News
- Google News: Local Business News
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