Learn about ethics in fundraising from David Cortes, Baylor University's Associate Vice President of Development, and David Wolf, Ph.D., Baylor University's Senior Associate Vice President for Advancement.

David Cortes is the Associate Vice President for Development at Baylor University, where he leads Fundraising and Campaign Operations. He provides senior leadership for frontline fundraising operations, campaign readiness, the Office of Gift Planning, and Bold Pursuits, which are among the university’s highest‑priority fundraising initiatives. During his tenure at Baylor, David has led fundraising teams across academic unit development, regional fundraising, foundation relations, and parent philanthropy. With more than 15 years of advancement experience, he is recognized for strengthening fundraising operations, developing high‑performing teams, and upholding donor‑centered, ethical philanthropy.

David Wolf, Ph.D. serves as Senior Associate Vice President for Advancement at Baylor University, where he provides strategic leadership for fundraising, campaign planning, and university advancement initiatives. With nearly 30 years of experience in higher education and advancement leadership, Wolf has led major campaign strategy and fundraising efforts at Tulane University, the University of North Texas, UCLA, and the University of Alabama. His work focuses on aligning philanthropic engagement with institutional mission and long‑term priorities.

A native of California, Dr. Wolf moved to Texas “as fast as he could” and completed both his BA and MA at the University of Texas at Arlington in Communication and Political Science. He later earned a Ph.D. in Higher Education from the University of North Texas, where his research and professional interests centered on university organization and leadership theories, public policy, and resource development. Known for his collaborative and strategic leadership approach, Wolf is committed to building strong teams and advancing mission‑driven impact through philanthropy.