ST. LOUIS, MO, 9/14/2026 — Central Institute for the Deaf (CID) is pleased to announce the appointment of Russ Austin as Chief Development Officer (CDO). A respected advancement leader with more than two decades of experience in higher education philanthropy and fundraising strategy, Austin will lead CID’s development team to help advance its mission to empower children who are deaf and hard of hearing to listen, talk, read and succeed.
Austin joined CID following his tenure at Washington University in St. Louis, where he most recently served as Vice Chancellor for Development. In that role, he oversaw fundraising initiatives across the university’s non-medical divisions and worked closely with donors, alumni, foundations and community partners to support institutional priorities and long-term growth. Previously, he held leadership roles in gift planning and advancement at Washington University and the University of Wisconsin Foundation.
“Russ brings exceptional experience, strategic vision and a deep commitment to building meaningful philanthropic partnerships,” Frank Childress, president of the CID board of directors, said. “His proven leadership and passion for connecting donors with opportunities to make a lasting impact will help strengthen CID’s ability to serve children and families for generations to come.”
As CDO, Austin will oversee fundraising and philanthropic initiatives, including major gifts, annual and planned giving, corporate and foundation partnerships and campaign development. He will work closely with leadership, donors and community stakeholders to expand support for CID’s educational programs, audiology services and family-centered resources.
“I’m honored to join Central Institute for the Deaf,” Austin said. “CID has a remarkable history of transforming lives through innovative education and compassionate care. I look forward to working to build on the organization’s strong foundation toward an even more visionary future.”
Austin holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He has been recognized for building high-performing advancement teams, fostering strong donor relationships and leading strategic philanthropic initiatives.
Central Institute for the Deaf is a global leader in listening and spoken language education. Founded in 1914, CID empowers children who are deaf and hard of hearing to learn and thrive in school and beyond. Through education, audiology and professional learning, CID serves children and families locally and around the world.