Jodi Joss is the director of philanthropy for the Bisk College of Business and a seasoned higher education professional with more than 20 years of experience, specializing in strategic planning, data analysis and corporate relations. She holds a Master of Science in Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a https://news.fit.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/dr_wiggenhorn1-1.jpg emphasis from St. Andrews University (formerly St. Andrews Presbyterian College). Joss has been married for 20 years—her husband, Jamie, is Florida Tech’s athletic director—and has three children: Jansen, 18; Jace, 16; and Jade, 13. She also has a Beabull named Mack.
In her role, Joss will focus on raising funds to support the university and the Bisk College of Business’ strategic goals by expanding scholarship opportunities for students and creating endowed opportunities for alumni and partners who wish to contribute to Florida Tech’s mission.
What inspired you to pursue a career in higher education and philanthropy?
My path into higher education and philanthropy is deeply influenced by my upbringing in a small town, where my parents—both entrepreneurs—owned and operated multiple businesses. They worked relentlessly to support our family, teaching me the values of hard work, perseverance and taking pride in every task, no matter how big or small. After graduating college, I embarked on my career in higher education within athletics. After six years in athletics, transitioning to the academic side of higher education was a significant change, but it offered a unique opportunity to make an even greater impact. I was able to contribute meaningfully to prospective students, families, donors, industry partners, alumni, faculty and military personnel—experiences that have been deeply fulfilling. Ultimately, it’s the ability to create lasting change and make a positive impact on others’ lives that continues to inspire and drive me in my work in higher education and philanthropy.
How do you think philanthropy can enhance the student experience at Florida Tech?
I believe the word ‘philanthropy’ can be intimidating to some, and it doesn’t have a single clear definition. However, philanthropy is something that students experience every day. Alumni and friends of the university contribute to scholarships, campus beautification, lecture opportunities, new equipment and facilities, to name a few, all of which directly benefit our students. In fact, students feel the impact of these philanthropic gifts each time they step on campus or receive their diploma.
Favorite Quote(s)?
“If you are the smartest person in the room, then you are in the wrong room,” and “Always strive to learn more and do better; hard work pays off.”
This piece was featured in the spring 2025 edition of The Bottom Line.
