Experienced Fundraising Executive Named Vice President—Development and Alumni Relations
Hyde Park, NY, March 24, 2026 – The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) today announced the appointment of Beth Kramer as vice president of development and alumni relations. She will oversee the college’s fundraising and alumni-engagement strategies and activities, deepening relationships with its expansive community of distinguished alumni, friends, and supporters.
Kramer is an entrepreneurial-minded fundraising executive with a proven track record of positioning institutions and teams for transformative growth. In her nearly four decades of experience, she has held leadership roles at institutions including Harvard, Northeastern, and Brandeis universities.
“I am thrilled to welcome Beth to the CIA community,” said CIA President Michiel Bakker. “Her strategic vision, global experience, and proven ability to inspire philanthropic investment will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission and impact.”
A creative strategist with deep expertise in innovative donor discovery and visionary gift planning, Kramer has secured nearly $500 million in philanthropic support over the course of her career. She also led major fundraising initiatives supporting student access and global learning experiences—areas that align closely with CIA’s mission and future priorities.
“It is an honor to join this renowned institution as it celebrates 80 years of leadership and impact and looks ahead to its next chapter,” Kramer said. “I’m excited to help advance the college’s bold vision and goals in the years ahead.”
A native of Youngstown, OH, Kramer holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Ohio Northern University. An avid home cook, she also served as a core team leader for a volunteer-run kitchen that prepared 700 meals each month for non-profit organizations in her community.
Media Contact:
Amanda Secor
Associate Director—Industry Marketing and Communications
845-451-1457
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About the Culinary Institute of America:
Founded in 1946, the Culinary Institute of America is the world’s premier culinary college. Dedicated to developing leaders in foodservice and hospitality, the independent, not-for-profit CIA offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees with majors in Baking and Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts, Culinary Science, Culinary Therapeutics, Food Business, Food Studies and Sustainability, Hospitality Management, and Wine and Beverage Management. The college also offers executive education, certificate programs, and courses for professionals and enthusiasts. Its conferences, leadership initiatives, and consulting services have made CIA the think tank of the food industry and its worldwide network of more than 55,000 alumni includes innovators in every area of the food world. CIA has locations in New York, California, Texas, and Singapore.
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