Heather Crozier
After more than two decades of service, Heather Crozier will conclude her chapter with Auburn University on Sept. 30, 2026, leaving a remarkable legacy of leadership, philanthropy and impact.
Crozier joined the Auburn University workforce in 2002, serving in several roles within the Harbert College of Business and Samuel Ginn College of Engineering before joining the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) in 2011. For the last 15 years, she has served as director of development, leading the college’s fundraising efforts through major and planned giving, annual giving, donor engagement and stewardship, special events and capital campaigns.
Throughout her time at Auburn, Crozier played a vital role in enhancing the CFWE’s philanthropic success and strengthening relationships with alumni, donors and friends of the college. Under her leadership, the CFWE became the first college at Auburn to reach its goal in the Because This is Auburn capital campaign and ultimately exceeded that goal by 29%.
Her impact is perhaps best reflected in the college’s recent fundraising initiatives. In 2025, the CFWE raised $6.8 million, the most successful fundraising year in the college’s history. This year, the college has already raised $7.2 million with one month remaining in the fiscal year, putting the CFWE on track to achieve its best fundraising year ever. These accomplishments stand as a testament to Crozier and her team’s dedication, vision and commitment to advancing the college’s mission.
As she begins a new professional chapter, Crozier will serve as deputy director of development for The Nature Conservancy Southern Deltas Business Unit, supporting fundraising efforts across Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. She will lead a team working to advance conservation priorities throughout the region.
“I am excited to be bringing two of my passions together, which are my lifelong love for the outdoors and nature while building meaningful relationships through philanthropy in this area,” Crozier said.
Her colleagues express their appreciation of Crozier’s time at Auburn and share in support of her new endeavors.
“While Heather’s leadership, enthusiasm and unwavering support for the CFWE will be missed, the college is grateful for the lasting impact she has made and the countless students, faculty, alumni and donors whose lives she has touched,” said Janaki Alavalapati, the Emmett F. Thompson Dean of the CFWE.
A reception will be held on Oct. 13, 2026, in the Forestry, Wildlife and Environment Building in celebration of Crozier and all she has accomplished during her time at Auburn.
