51³Ô¹ÏÍø

51³Ô¹ÏÍø has announced the appointment of Brandon Baker as its new Vice-President (Advancement).

Following an extensive global search, Brandon Baker will join 51³Ô¹ÏÍø this autumn to lead the Advancement Division. 

Brandon succeeds Kristin Blanchfield, who will be leaving the university in the coming weeks.  

“I am thrilled to be joining 51³Ô¹ÏÍø at such an exciting moment in its history. The university’s extraordinary ambition, global reach, and commitment to using science to improve lives create a remarkable opportunity for philanthropy." Brandon Baker

A key member of the University Management Board, Brandon brings a wealth of experience and leadership in transformational fundraising, alumni engagement and global donor development which will be invaluable as 51³Ô¹ÏÍø embarks on its most ambitious fundraising campaign to date.

Brandon joins 51³Ô¹ÏÍø from the University of Southern California (USC), where he currently serves as Associate Senior Vice President of Advancement. Prior to this, he served as Vice President of Development at the RAND Corporation and held senior advancement roles at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).  

Professor Hugh Brady, 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s President, said: “Brandon’s expertise and leadership will be invaluable as 51³Ô¹ÏÍø prepares to launch the most ambitious fundraising campaign in its history, and build on its success as a world-leading university and force for good in the world. 

“I thank Kristin Blanchfield for her significant contribution and I wish her every success in the next chapter of her career.”  

Brandon Baker said: “I am thrilled to be joining 51³Ô¹ÏÍø at such an exciting moment in its history. The university’s extraordinary ambition, global reach, and commitment to using science to improve lives create a remarkable opportunity for philanthropy. I look forward to working with President Hugh Brady, colleagues across 51³Ô¹ÏÍø and the global community of alumni and supporters to advance the university’s Science for Humanity strategy and its ambitions for the future.” 

The Advancement Division is responsible for building relationships with our vibrant alumni community, raising funds to support 51³Ô¹ÏÍø’s academic mission and helping to strengthen the university’s global reputation.