A Conversation with Tim Minor and Alan Cason

This interview originally appeared in the USM Foundation’s FY 25 annual report.

A new chapter began at the University System of Maryland Foundation when we welcomed Tim Minor, president and CEO of the Foundation and vice chancellor for advancement for the USM, and Alan Cason as the Foundation’s new Board chair. In this conversation, we explore their vision for the Foundation, their priorities for the year ahead, and how they plan to build on the strong foundation laid by their predecessors.

Both of you are stepping into new roles at a time when higher education needs philanthropy and engagement more than ever. What excites you most about leading the USM Foundation in this moment?

TM: What excites me most is the opportunity to help students imagine and achieve their future. That’s why so many of us are drawn to higher education: to open doors to transformational opportunities. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our work can help turn someone’s dream into reality, and that sense of purpose drives me every day.

AC: I’ve long been a proponent of higher education and expanding opportunities for Maryland residents to attend higher education institutions, especially those within the USM. Being asked to serve in a leadership role at a time when access and affordability are under pressure is both an honor and an exciting challenge. I’m energized by the chance to use my leadership experience to help the Foundation advance its mission and ensure more students can pursue their educational goals.

A hallmark of the Foundation is encouraging a culture of philanthropy. How do you envision strengthening that culture across the USM in the years ahead?

TM: We’re fortunate to have talented advancement teams across the USM, and the Foundation plays a key role in supporting their success and we’re focused on empowering our colleagues. Fundraising is a team sport—it takes all of us advocating for our institutions and the System. Strengthening that culture means continuing to invest in people, tools, and strategies that help us tell our story and connect with donors in meaningful ways.

AC: One of my priorities as chair is increasing awareness of the Foundation’s mission and the broader work of the USM. We can strengthen the culture of philanthropy by developing a shared theme across our institutions—one that emphasizes access and affordability. That starts with deeper engagement with System leaders and advancement officers, especially at our smaller institutions and HBCUs. These schools have unique challenges and fewer resources, and I want to ensure they have the tools and support they need to thrive. Promoting a unified message and providing targeted resources will help us build a stronger philanthropic culture across the System.

Collaboration is central to the Foundation’s work, with advancement teams, donors, and campus leadership. What does effective collaboration look like to you, and how will you encourage it?

TM: To me, true collaboration goes beyond transactions—it’s about building comprehensive, long-term relationships. Whether we’re supporting academic programs, research initiatives, or industry partnerships, the goal is to create connections that are deeply rooted in shared values and mutual investment. It’s not just about naming a building or writing a check; it’s about donors and partners investing their time, expertise, and whole selves in our universities. That’s the kind of collaboration I want to foster—one that’s transformational, not just transactional.

AC: Effective collaboration means recognizing that one size doesn’t fit all. Each USM institution has its own identity, strengths, and challenges. That’s why I’m excited about Tim’s leadership—his experience gives him a unique perspective on how to tailor support to each campus. I hope to promote a culture where we approach each institution individually, while still working together toward shared goals.

Looking ahead, what is your vision for the Foundation over the next few years, and how will you measure success?

TM: Right now, I’m focused on listening and learning. We’re conducting sessions with stakeholders across the USM, and those conversations will shape our strategic direction. We’ll use what we learn to build a plan in partnership with our Board and Foundation team, and we’ll test that direction with external partners to ensure it reflects our shared goals. Success, to me, means delivering strong ROI—whether that’s through the performance of the endowment, the infrastructure we support on campuses, or how we help advance the System’s strategic priorities. Ultimately, it’s about how we help institutions serve their communities here in Maryland and around the world.

AC: I’d like to see the Foundation’s endowed funds grow significantly and for each USM institution to enhance its fundraising capabilities and become more systematic and intentional in their approach. I believe in the “rising tide lifts all boats” philosophy. I want every USM institution to see itself as part of the fleet, and for the success of one to contribute to the success of all. If that mindset permeates the System by the time I finish my term, I’ll consider that a major success.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing? What are you passionate about?

TM: My greatest joy is being a father to my two sons, Evan and Noah, who are 17 and 15. They teach me something new every day. I’m also a huge sports fan—born and raised in North Carolina, I’ve been a lifelong Panthers supporter, but I also grew up cheering for Washington before the Panthers were established. I wore #44 in high school because of John Riggins! I’m a proud University of North Carolina graduate and follow the Tar Heels closely, but I’m excited to support the Terps and all of our USM institutions’ athletics programs. I enjoy traveling and am someone who genuinely enjoys learning—about people, cultures, and the world. My sons and I love taking trips to explore new places and perspectives.

AC: I’ve been passionate about motorsports since I was a kid. I drive sports cars on racetracks and regularly attend F1 races, the 24 Hours of Daytona, and the Indy 500. One of my earliest memories is riding in a tour van around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway with my mom—it sparked a lifelong love of cars. I’ve lived in Stuttgart, Germany, where Porsche and Mercedes are built, and I’ve built a car collection over the years. I also love team sports and am a dedicated fan of the Terrapins, Ravens, Orioles, and Wizards. Whether it’s racing or cheering on Maryland teams, I enjoy the energy and community that comes with it.