CIA Taps Ivy League Fundraising Veteran to Lead Development
Event summary
- Beth Kramer appointed Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations at CIA on March 19, 2026
- Kramer brings nearly 40 years of fundraising experience, including roles at Harvard, Northeastern, and Brandeis
- Secured nearly $500 million in philanthropic support across her career
- Will oversee fundraising and alumni engagement for CIA's 60,000-strong global alumni network
The big picture
CIA's hire of a seasoned university fundraiser signals intensified focus on philanthropic growth amid rising competition among culinary and hospitality education programs. The appointment comes as the institution celebrates its 80th anniversary and seeks to expand its global footprint with campuses in four countries. Kramer's track record suggests CIA aims to professionalize its development operations to support ambitious academic and infrastructure initiatives.
What we're watching
- Fundraising Momentum
- Whether Kramer can replicate her $500M fundraising success at CIA, particularly in student access and global learning initiatives
- Alumni Engagement
- How effectively she leverages CIA's 60,000-strong alumni network to support institutional growth
- Strategic Alignment
- The pace at which Kramer integrates her Ivy League fundraising strategies with CIA's unique position in culinary education