After a competitive national search, Kettering University has named Jennifer Patterson its next Vice President of University Advancement and External Relations, effective Oct. 1.

Patterson comes to Kettering with more than two decades of successful fundraising experience. In her previous role 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. Patterson has previously led advancement teams at the University of Rochester in New York, the National Academy of Engineering in Washington, D.C., and Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center.

“Jennifer’s proven track record in advancement makes her the ideal choice for our leadership team,” said Kettering University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “Her ability to work with teams of diverse backgrounds and various sizes is perfect to help the University to continue to move boldly forward.”

Patterson believes successful advancement teams need to be dedicated, collaborative, creative, entrepreneurial and tenacious. She vows she will live and demonstrate those qualities too.

“I offer my talents as a builder; leader of high-performing teams; recruiter and manager of volunteers and boards; calculated risk taker; and creative and collaborative partner to advance Kettering’s strategic plan and go big,” she said.

Patterson earned a Bachelor's Degree in English and Secondary Education from Xavier University in Ohio and a Master's degree in Management from High Point University in North Carolina.

Former Vice President of University Advancement and External Relations, Susan Davies, retired in December after nearly a decade with Kettering University. Giuseppe “Joe” Rizza worked as the interim vice president until recently.