AA&D and Corporate Affairs announces leadership changes

In late October, Charles Phlegar, Cornell’s vice president for alumni affairs and development (AA&D), announced several promotions and leadership changes in his division. One change that directly impacted the SHA was the promotion of Jon Denison to associate vice president for colleges and units for the university. Jon joined SHA in 2008 as associate dean for external affairs, and we have been fortunate to enjoy his leadership of AA&D, corporate affairs, and marketing and communications. He moved into his new role on November 15 and now oversees the advancement programs for Cornell’s ten schools and colleges, the Lab of Ornithology, Student and Academic Services, Athletics, University Libraries, and the Johnson Museum. The university’s corporate and foundation fundraising program also now reports to Jon.

As the result of Jon’s well-deserved promotion, Meg Keilbach has been promoted to assistant dean of alumni affairs and development, and Joe Strodel has been promoted to executive director of corporate affairs. As Meg and Joe join Dean Michael Johnson’s senior leadership team, they will continue to elevate the school’s engagement with alumni and industry leaders and raise funds to support SHA programs, scholarships, faculty renewal, and facilities.

In her new role, Meg will have primary responsibility for leading the school’s fundraising activities and alumni engagement. Meg’s efforts have been central to our fundraising success in recent years as well as the strong relationships we share with the Cornell Hotel Society, related alumni groups, and parents.

Joe has been instrumental in raising our profile and awareness in the industry and related corporate fundraising, where SHA now ranks second across all 15 Cornell colleges, schools, and units ranked by annual corporate giving. Joe will also continue to serve as director of marketing and communications on an interim basis.

In addition, Mark Depew has been promoted to associate director of alumni affairs and development. Mark joined the school in 2010 as an assistant director of AA&D. He has been instrumental in developing the Dean’s Council of Young Alumni and establishing a successful pool of prospects.