Margaret Wilson Faust, a self-described friend-raiser of fundraising at Catawba College, will soon transition out of her role as director of alumni and parent relations to assume responsibilities as assistant vice president for donor relations at the college. Although she is excited for the opportunity “to help steer the course of the Development Office,” she recently looked back on her 20 years in her current role through a lens filtered by dear and fond memories, laughter and a few tears.

“For me, it has been all about the relationships. I love that I have gotten the chance to really know so many of our alumni from all generations,” she said. “These truly are friends to me, and we share a common bond.”

Love of place is something Faust knows well. She credits her parents, in particular dad Dr. Robert Wilson, a true-blue Catawba alumnus, for giving her a love for Catawba early in life.

When it came time for Faust to head off to college, there really was only one college on her mind – Catawba. It was the only college to which she applied.

As an undergraduate, Faust was a shining example of a Catawba student. She entered the college as a First Family Scholar and pursued a major in communications. She lived on campus in North Hall — now Stanback Residence Hall — served as SGA president, was a cheerleader, an Alpha and a Catawba Guide. Even after her graduation, she served as an alumni volunteer for admissions while she lived in Raleigh.

Faust says she was a young, passionate alumna when she assumed her role at Catawba in 1995. And while she says her passion is still very much intact, another feeling has gained equal weight — a feeling of responsibility for the well-being and future of the college.

“I’m here for the greater good, and I want to see my school thrive,” she said. “I know that all small schools fight the same issues of remaining in front of their alumni, keeping them interested, and engaged. We try to do as much as we can while remaining good stewards for those who have put their trust in our judgment.

Faust explains that while settling into her new role in development, she and Vice President of Development Rex Otey will pair her strengths with some needs. Otey said that moving Faust into her new role would allow her to have a greater impact on her alma mater.