Leah Payne is the Director of Prospect Management & Research at Longwood University, a small comprehensive public university in Virginia founded in 1839. Leah has served in her current role for over 15 years and has a breath of experience. She spearheads moves management, prospect research, major gift pipeline development, internal prospect giving analytics and external wealth screenings. 

Before finding her latest passion in fundraising, Leah served as the Assistant Dean for Student Services at the Bon Secours College of Nursing and Assistant Dean of Students at UNC-Wilmington. Her exposure to financial aid, admissions and student advocacy deepened her appreciation for the crucial role philanthropy plays in the success of a non-profit organizations. Leah is active in the community and has served on various boards.