FARGO, N.D. (YWCA) – Jill DeVries has joined YWCA Cass Clay as its new development officer. She will meet with philanthropic individuals and businesses to help fulfill their values through investment in programs and projects of YWCA.

DeVries will engage supporters in YWCA’s mission and ensure gifts made by stakeholders have their desired meaning and community impact while annually empowering 1,500 women and children escaping domestic violence and poverty.

Prior to joining YWCA, DeVries was director of athletics for Valley City State University and oversaw all aspects of the athletic department including coaching staff, budget administration, eligibility, compliance, and facility management. A member of the university’s top leadership team, she collaborated with the VCSU Foundation and led record-setting fundraising for new initiatives and events.

DeVries oversaw successful conference tournaments, served as Title IX coordinator, and chaired the North Star Athletic Association Board of Athletic Directors. She contributed to National Association of Intercollegiate Athlete (NAIA) committees on conduct and ethics, and another on competitive experience. Prior to becoming athletic director, Devries was a successful head women’s basketball coach at VCSU for 18 years, establishing a nationally competitive NAIA women’s basketball program.

She was active in the Valley City community as a board member for the Sheyenne Valley Community Foundation, Kiwanis member, and volunteer for United Way, Relay for Life, and others.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to join YWCA Cass Clay. It is a great organization doing incredible work to support the most vulnerable in our community. I look forward to helping advance their mission to eliminate racism and empower women,” DeVries said.

DeVries is a graduate of North Dakota State University with a Bachelor of Science in physical education and a master’s in secondary education. At NDSU, she was team captain of a National Champion NDSU women’s basketball team.