BETHANY, W.Va. (July 20, 2026) — Jennifer Parker has joined Bethany College as associate vice president of advancement, bringing more than two decades of advancement leadership and fundraising experience to the College. 
In her new role, Parker will provide strategic leadership for Bethany’s annual giving and alumni relations programs, overseeing initiatives that strengthen engagement among alumni and friends while expanding philanthropic support for the College. She will lead efforts to grow The Bethany Fund, increase alumni participation, cultivate lifelong relationships with Bethanians, and develop strategies that support the College’s long-term advancement priorities.
“Jennifer has dedicated her career to strengthening the relationships that help mission-driven organizations thrive,” said Bethany President Dr. Jamie Caridi. “Her experience in fundraising and alumni engagement will be instrumental as we continue to advance Bethany’s priorities and shape the College’s future.”
Parker is an accomplished fundraising executive with expertise spanning capital campaigns, annual giving, advancement operations, donor stewardship, prospect research, constituent engagement, and strategic planning. Throughout her career, she has helped nonprofit organizations raise more than $35 million in philanthropic support.
Most recently, Parker served as president and owner of J.M. Parker Consulting, where she advised colleges, schools, dioceses, and nonprofit organizations on advancement operations, donor engagement, fundraising strategy, prospect development, and philanthropic planning. Her clients have included higher education institutions, community organizations, and charitable ministries throughout the U.S.
Before launching her consulting practice, Parker spent 15 years at Franciscan University of Steubenville, serving in a variety of advancement and leadership roles. She has also held director of advancement positions with several educational and nonprofit organizations, including Regina Caeli Academy, Trinity School for Ministry, Steubenville Catholic Schools, and Dry Bones Ministries.
“Jennifer brings the strategic mindset and operational expertise that will help us elevate every aspect of annual giving and alumni engagement,” said Jason Koegler, vice president for advancement. “She understands how strong relationships, thoughtful stewardship, and careful planning build lasting relationships with alumni and donors. I’m excited to partner with her as we continue to build opportunities for alumni and friends to invest in Bethany’s future.”
Parker earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Chestnut Hill College and both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Education from Franciscan University of Steubenville. She currently serves as the External Committee chair for the Urban Mission Ministries in Steubenville, Ohio.
“It is a privilege to join the Bethany College community as Associate Vice President of Advancement. I have strong ties to the Bethany community as my great-grandfather was a caretaker at the Campbell Mansion, and I served as DJ for 88.1 WVBC (even though I wasn’t a student) one summer because there were not enough people to keep the station running,” said Parker. “Throughout my career, I have been inspired by the impact that generosity and strong partnerships can have on students and institutions. I am excited to work alongside Bethany’s dedicated alumni, donors, faculty, staff, and leadership to build on the College’s proud traditions, celebrate its strengths, and secure the resources needed to support its continued growth and success. Together, we have an incredible opportunity to shape Bethany’s future while honoring its remarkable legacy.”
Parker resides in Bloomingdale, Ohio, with her husband, Todd. They have two adult sons, Todd and Curtis, as well as five rescue dogs and a cat.
Parker welcomes the opportunity to connect with Bethany alumni and friends. She can be reached at jennifer.parker@bethanywv.edu and 304.829.7633.
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