NORTHERN ALBERTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
NAIT welcomes Daryl Silzer as Vice-President, External Relations and Chief Development Officer

NAIT is pleased to welcome Daryl Silzer as the polytechnic's new Vice-President External Relations and Chief Development Officer. Reporting to the President and CEO, he will lead a broad portfolio including fundraising and alumni relations, marketing, communications, digital and web strategy, conference and events. 

With more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, donor relations and external relations, Silzer brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success, making him a valuable addition to the NAIT leadership team.  

Silzer's extensive background includes over seven years in the Alberta post-secondary sector, most recently serving as the Director of Faculty Development, College of Health Sciences, at the University of Alberta. In his previous roles, Silzer demonstrated remarkable leadership by exceeding financial revenue targets and successfully securing transformational gifts-million-dollar gifts. He played a pivotal role in fostering relationships with key stakeholders and donors, creating a culture of philanthropy that benefited the institutions he has served. 

Before joining the University of Alberta in 2017, Silzer held senior positions at the Alberta Cancer Foundation and Canadian Red Cross.  

Silzer joins NAIT at an exciting time as it moves forward with the planning and design for the proposed Advanced Skills Centre that will support leading-edge training, technology and resources, preparing students for future careers in high-demand fields.  

Silzer will start at NAIT on November 25, 2024.   

QUOTES 

"I'm honoured to be joining NAIT as Vice-President, External Relations and Chief Development Officer. Working with such a dynamic team is a privilege, and I look forward to advancing the incredible work already being done. Together we will build on NAIT's strong foundation through thoughtful and strategic engagement with our community in ways that inspire growth, innovation, and long-lasting connections." - Daryl Silzer, incoming Vice-President, External Relations and Chief Development Officer 

"Daryl's extensive experience in fundraising and donor relations, along with his strong leadership, makes him an ideal fit for NAIT. His proven ability to build meaningful relationships will ensure we continue to meet our strategic goals and strengthen our external partnerships. We are thrilled to welcome Daryl to our vibrant NAIT community, and further enhance NAIT's impact within Alberta and beyond." - Laura Jo Gunter, NAIT President & CEO