Duraunte Cutts began as the department's Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development on July 1, 2026.
Cutts brings to GMU more than decade of experience in collegiate athletics development, donor engagement, and revenue generation to George Mason. He joins the Patriots after serving as Director of Athletic Development/Associate Athletic Director at Fordham University, where he played an integral role in advancing the university's philanthropic efforts and cultivating relationships with alumni, supporters, and friends of athletics.
Prior to Fordham, Cutts spent more than two years at the University of Kansas as an assistant athletic director, overseeing the department's annual fund operations. During his tenure, the unit generated more than $20 million annually in support of Jayhawks Athletics while achieving significant growth in donor engagement and membership initiatives, increasing participation by 28 percent. He also played a key role in leadership giving efforts and alumni student-athlete engagement initiatives.
As Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development, Cutts serves as the chief fundraising officer for athletics, leading all philanthropic initiatives that support the department's strategic priorities and the university's mission. As a member of the athletics senior leadership team, he collaborates closely with Advancement and Alumni Relations, athletics staff, and external partners to strengthen donor engagement and increase support through annual, major, principal, and planned giving efforts.
Before Kansas, Cutts served in fundraising leadership positions at UNLV, where he oversaw the Runnin' Rebels Loyalty Circle Society, the department's premier giving society, and managed the activation of premium athletic assets to enhance donor stewardship. During his time in Las Vegas, he secured major gifts and partnerships with national and regional organizations, including Red Bull and Nevada State Bank.
His previous experience also includes development and corporate partnership roles at Jacksonville University, as well as donor relations and ticket sales positions at Florida State University.
Cutts began his career in professional sports with the Houston Astros and D.C. United before returning to his alma mater, Valdosta State University, where he served as assistant director of ticketing and game operations.
