Giving with Impact

Derek Berger serves as Vice President for University Advancement at Wentworth Institute of Technology, where he leads the university’s fundraising, alumni relations, and external engagement efforts. He oversees a team committed to connecting alumni, donors, industry, and external partners with meaningful opportunities to invest in Wentworth’s success and expand access to transformative, career-focused educational experiences for students.

Derek joined Wentworth following a successful tenure at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he served as Associate Vice Chancellor for Development. During his time there, he played a key role in executing a $150 million capital campaign and launching a subsequent $250 million comprehensive initiative, while also securing significant philanthropic support for scholarships and institutional priorities.

Prior to UMass Lowell, Derek served as Vice President of Fundraising at Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana and the Ivy Tech Foundation, where he led systemwide fundraising efforts. He also held advancement leadership roles at the Ball State University Foundation, including Associate Vice President for Development.

Derek holds a doctorate and a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Ball State University and a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education from Central Michigan University. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member in UMass Lowell’s Higher Education Administration program and as chair of the Auburn School District School Board.

Xander Bennet joined Wentworth in late 2021. Since then, he has enjoyed connecting with students, faculty, alumni, and corporate partners to elevate the mission and bring resources to bear in support of high-value, hands- on learning. Away from campus Xander is an avid cyclist and traveler. He earned his Ed.M. from Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Katie DePrimo joined the Institutional Advancement & External Relations team at Wentworth in 2014 and serves as the Executive Director of Alumni Relations & Annual Giving, providing over a decade of experience in higher education fundraising and engagement. In her role, she is responsible for overseeing, designing, and implementing an omni-channel annual giving and alumni relations program that supports the university and provides mutually beneficial and meaningful engagement opportunities for alumni and the university.

Samantha is an experienced fundraising professional with expertise in corporate and foundation partnerships. Prior to joining Wenworth in 2023, Samantha worked at education and youth development nonprofit organizations in the Boston area. She is dedicated to fostering relationships that advance Wentworth's mission and make a positive impact on the community.

Erik is passionate about education and enjoys connecting with alumni, parents, and friends to hear about the impact Wentworth has had on their lives. Erik has more than 20 years’ professional experience across corporate and higher education industries and is a board member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Massachusetts and a long time volunteer at Boston Childrens Hospital. During Erik’s leisure time, he enjoys running, traveling with his wife, and dining out.