We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Amanda Bates (Mandie) as Associate Director of Advancement and External Relations, a new position within the College of the Arts. Mandie will be working to develop and implement comprehensive external relations initiatives and priorities, and assist with the fundraising activities of the College in partnership with the Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement and in consultation with the Dean. She joins the Kent State staff in spring 2023.
Originally from Medina, Ohio, Mandie is an alumnae of Kent State, graduating from the university with a B.A. in Art History in 2007. During her studies, she undertook internship and volunteer opportunities at the Kent State University Museum. She went on to earn an M.A. in Art History from West Virginia University in 2011 and worked at the the Art Museum of West Virginia University before moving into a career in advancement and philanthropy.
She joins the College of the Arts from the London School of Economics and Political Science, where she was responsible for planning, delivering and monitoring a comprehensive and structured donor relations and stewardship programme for LSE donors. Previous to this, she held similar roles at King's College London and King's Health Partners, and West Virginia University and has almost a decade of experience working in higher education fundraising.
"As a former Golden Flash, I'm thrilled to be coming back to Kent State and the College of the Arts, a place that feels so familiar to me. I'm looking forward to supporting and engaging our brilliant faculty, talented students and dedicated supporters with the innovative and creative work that's taking place across the College."
“We are excited to have Mandie return to Kent State University and are looking forward to all she will bring to the College of the Arts - helping to build connections to our alumni and community,” said Dean Diane Petrella.