Meret Nahas Named New Chief Advancement Officer at The Rivers School

“Meret’s leadership, deep commitment to our mission, and proven track record in educational philanthropy will be invaluable as we chart the future of Rivers. Her leadership and strategic vision will guide Rivers into our next comprehensive campaign and beyond,” said Dahlem. 

With more than 15 years of experience in advancement spanning an array of institutions, Nahas has a proven history of securing transformative gifts and driving successful fundraising campaigns. Her prior work at The Loomis Chaffee School, where she contributed significantly to a $131 million capital campaign, and during The College of Wooster’s $191 million capital campaign, where she secured six- and seven-figure gifts for critical initiatives in support of innovation and access, speak to her ability to align donor passions with institutional priorities. 

Nahas joined the Rivers community in March of 2022 and most recently held the position of interim director of development and external relations. Under her leadership this fiscal year, The Rivers Fund is ahead in total dollars raised year-to-date, and the fund experienced a 20% growth in the number of donors, including a 43% increase in first-time donors. In her previous role as director of leadership and planned giving, Nahas was instrumental in securing six- and seven-figure gifts to support endowed financial aid, the Science Internship Program, Learning Services Department, and scholarships. Beyond the Rivers community, Nahas is a current Trustee at The College of Wooster and serves as a cabinet member for CASE (Council for Advancement and Support of Education). 

 

The close ties to the Rivers community and mission are a core strength of Nahas’ leadership, said Dahlem. “Meret’s approach to fundraising is rooted in the school’s philosophy of Excellence with Humanity. She has shown time and again her dedication to fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the Board of Trustees, senior leadership, and donors.” 

 

Additionally, her involvement in campus life, including her work as one of five key leaders on the AISNE Accreditation Steering Committee and her role as faculty advisor for our Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) student affinity group, demonstrates her holistic commitment to Rivers, its students, and its institutional values.

 

“Rivers’ focus on fostering academic excellence, emotional resilience, and ethical grounding resonates deeply with my professional mission and personal values. I am excited about the opportunity to further strengthen the philanthropic pillars that sustain Rivers' enduring legacy,” said Nahas. 

 

As chief advancement officer, Nahas will build on The Rivers School’s strong foundation, working with the entire community to advance Rivers’ mission through transformational philanthropy, strategic leadership, and a deep focus on relationship-building. Her leadership will be crucial as the school looks to expand philanthropic support for key priorities emerging from the next strategic plan.