Experienced fundraising and alumni engagement leader named vice president of advancement

Baker University welcomes Jennifer Patterson as vice president of advancement. With nearly three decades of successful fundraising and alumni engagement experience, Patterson joins the university with a national reputation for innovation, collaboration, and mission-driven impact. She begins her role this August, 2025.

Patterson most recently served as vice president for advancement and external relations at Kettering University, where she was part of the President’s Cabinet and led her division to launch a silent phase of a comprehensive, multi-million-dollar campaign focused on student scholarships. Her work was marked by deep collaboration with campus leaders, trustees, and alumni volunteers to advance institutional priorities and philanthropic engagement.

Before her time at Kettering, Patterson served nearly a decade as vice president for advancement, marketing, and external relations at Capital University, in Columbus, Ohio. She led her division during record-breaking years in overall fundraising totals. During that time, Capital University doubled the baseline raised in less than six years and more than tripled it in 10 years.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jennifer to Baker University,” said Baker University President Dr. Jody Fournier. “I’ve seen firsthand the tenacity, optimism, and creativity she brings to every challenge. Her deep understanding of advancement and her belief in the power of education will be instrumental in helping us grow and thrive in the years ahead.”

Patterson’s advancement career also includes leadership roles at the University of Rochester, the National Academy of Engineering, and Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. She is inspired by Baker University’s mission of preparing students for responsible global leadership and community change, and believes the institution is uniquely positioned to lead with purpose.

“I am proud to join the esteemed community at Baker University and look forward to building strong partnerships with students, alumni, faculty, and friends of the university,” Patterson said. “Baker’s values, legacy, and vision for the future resonate deeply with me, and I’m excited to help strengthen its philanthropic impact and alumni engagement for generations to come.”

Patterson holds bachelor’s degrees in English and secondary education from Xavier University and a master’s in management from High Point University.

This appointment follows a series of strategic leadership hires under new Baker University President Fournier, including Dr. Tina Hartley as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Jonathan Long as dean of students, and Dr. Deanna Wagner as vice president of student affairs.