Rakin “Rock” Hall joined the University Advancement team as executive director of Foundation Relations on October 1, 2019. Rakin is a higher education professional with over 20 years of experience working in the areas of enrollment management, institutional advancement, and strategic research initiatives. Rakin moved to Salt Lake City, joining the University of Utah from the University of Southern California, in 2018. Rakin has worked for four universities, both public and private, in various leadership capacities. Each university differed in topography, culture, and diversity. The variety of Rakin’s experiences allows him to better understand the nuances of assisting the University of Utah as it strives to continue its upward momentum as one of the newest members of the Association of American Universities.

“My professional journey has prepared me well to support the Corporate and Foundation Relations (CFR) team and assist the university research community. Building meaningful relationships and aligning values are the keys to success within CFR. The faculty at Utah engage and ask the tough questions that lead to measurable outcomes. I am honored to partner with faculty and work toward secure funding that furthers their research.”