Culver-Stockton hires Koplinski as new VP, Advancement

January 7, 2026 176 16

CANTON, Mo. — Sarah Koplinski is joining Culver-Stockton College as its newest vice president for advancement. The Canton-based private university made the announcement Tuesday via press release.

While Koplinski began her new role on Monday, January 5, she brings more than 20 years of advancement and nonprofit leadership experience to “The Hill.” This includes extensive work in major gifts, annual giving, grants, alumni engagement, stewardship, and campaign strategy.

Koplinski joins Culver-Stockton after a successful advancement career at Blackburn College in Carlinville, Ill. During her tenure at Blackburn, she served in several senior leadership roles, including vice president for institutional advancement, interim VP for institutional advancement, and senior director of development and foundation relations.

She was instrumental in a successful five-year comprehensive capital campaign that raised more than $26 million. In addition, Koplinski played a key role in building strong relationships with key alumni and donors, resulting in significant financial support. She also developed a robust grant program, securing and managing numerous grants, including federal, state, and private foundation awards.

“Sarah is an experienced advancement leader with a strong record of results, and we are thrilled to welcome her to Culver-Stockton,” said Culver-Stockton President Dr. Lauren Schellenberger. “At Blackburn College, she helped lead comprehensive fundraising efforts that strengthened institutional capacity and advanced strategic priorities.”

“She understands how to build authentic donor partnerships, align philanthropy with mission, and create the kind of donor-centered culture that drives long-term impact,” Dr. Schellenberger added. “As we look to the future of Culver-Stockton, Sarah’s
strategic mindset, steady leadership, and deep understanding of effective fundraising will be instrumental as we grow support for our students and the work happening on the Hill.”

Before joining Blackburn, Koplinski spent 10 years with the American Cancer Society in Wisconsin and Illinois, where she managed large teams, multimillion-dollar budgets, and statewide fundraising initiatives.

Earlier in her career, she served as the first lay director of development for The Core Collective (formerly St. Vincent Home for Children) in Florissant, Mo., leading grant writing, planned giving, special events, and marketing efforts.

“I am honored to step into this role at Culver-Stockton College,” Koplinski said. “This institution has a powerful mission and an engaged community of alumni, donors, and friends.”

“I look forward to building strong partnerships that support our students, faculty, and the future of the College,” Koplinski added. “I am excited to join the Culver-Stockton community and look forward to becoming involved in campus life and the surrounding area.”

About Sarah Koplinski

Sarah Koplinski holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration and political science, with a minor in speech communications, from Blackburn College. She has completed advanced training in fundraising management and federal grants administration.

Koplinski and her husband, Trent, met while in college and have been married for 26 years. They have two children, including a son who is currently in college and a daughter who is a nurse.

Career highlights

The Core Collective: Led grant writing, planned giving, special events, and marketing efforts
American Cancer Society – Wisconsin and Illinois Chapters: Managed large teams, multimillion-dollar budgets, and statewide fundraising initiatives
Blackburn College: Served in several senior leadership roles, including vice president for institutional advancement, interim VP for institutional advancement, and senior director of development and foundation relations. Instrumental in a successful five-year comprehensive capital campaign that raised more than $26 million. Played a key role in building strong relationships with key alumni and donors, resulting in significant financial support. Developed a robust grant program, securing and managing numerous grants, including federal, state, and private foundation awards.