St. Bonaventure University has named Robert J. Buckla, Ed.D., a 1984 graduate of the university, its new executive director of major and principal gifts, effective Jan. 5, 2027.

Buckla will join the university’s Advancement team, reporting to Lindsay Retchless, vice president for Advancement and chief of staff. He comes to St. Bonaventure from Mt. Irenaeus, where he has directed the 3Peaks Campaign.

Buckla brings more than 40 years of advancement experience, much of it in higher education and independent schools. Throughout his career, he has helped institutions strengthen relationships with alumni, parents and friends while leading or contributing to major capital and endowment campaigns.

He has held senior advancement positions at several institutions, including Illinois Institute of Technology, Lake Forest Academy, Cardinal Stritch University and Regis University.

In his new role, Buckla will oversee St. Bonaventure’s major gifts team, supporting gift officers in developing and strengthening donor relationships. He will also work directly with alumni, parents and friends to connect their philanthropic interests with opportunities to advance the university’s mission and priorities.

"I am grateful that Rob will join us at such an important time for the university. We have tremendous momentum, and the strength of our alumni and donor community will be an important part of what comes next," said University President Dr. Jeff Gingerich.

A first-generation college graduate and native of Endicott, New York, Buckla earned his bachelor’s degree from St. Bonaventure’s Jandoli School of Communication before completing both a master’s degree and doctorate at Vanderbilt University.

His connection to St. Bonaventure has remained strong in the decades since his graduation. For the past 15 years, Buckla has co-chaired the university’s 80s Weekend, helping raise support for the Bonnies Athletic Fund. He has also served on the Board of Trustees at Mt. Irenaeus, reflecting his continued commitment to the university’s Franciscan mission.

Buckla returns to St. Bonaventure at a time of significant momentum for the university, when alumni engagement and philanthropic support remain central to its continued growth.