Carleton partnered with Lindauer to place Batke in a role that will be central to the College’s implementation of a new strategic direction, “Carleton 2033: The Liberal Arts in Action.”
Following a national search in partnership with Lindauer, Carleton College has named Daren Batke Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations. Batke begins his new role on April 1, 2024, joining the President’s Cabinet and providing strategic direction and leadership for the College in the areas of development, alumni relations, parent and family relations, and grants.
Batke arrives at a pivotal moment, as Carleton has just launched its strategic direction, Carleton 2033: The Liberal Arts in Action, and is preparing to identify funding priorities and build the infrastructure for Carleton’s next capital campaign.
“I am delighted that at this important moment for the College, Carleton will have the benefit of Daren’s energy, experience, and commitment to relationship-building,” Carleton President Alison Byerly said. “I know that as a liberal arts college graduate himself, he is excited to help Carleton make the case for why the extraordinary education we offer is worth supporting.”
Batke brings extensive experience in fundraising, development, and advancement to Carleton, with 20 years spent working in higher education. He began his career at the University of Michigan Law School in the Office of Development and worked his way up to Senior Regional Director of Major Giving. He then took the role of Executive Director of Development at the University of Chicago Law School, where he designed the school’s major and annual giving programs and ran its capital campaign.
Batke transitioned next to the role of Associate Dean of Advancement at Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law, where his team raised over $250 million in a comprehensive campaign and implemented the school’s $100 million naming gift. Since 2019, Batke has been the Chief Advancement Officer at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, responsible for establishing the long-range strategies, goals, and policies for development and alumni relations at the school.
As Carleton’s Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations, Batke will lead a team of 58 to carry out all components of development and alumni relations, including capital giving, major and planned gifts, the Alumni Annual Fund, alumni relations, parent and family relations, stewardship, and grants.
“Liberal arts colleges have a transformative power over individuals—myself included—and a profound significance in shaping our world. Carleton, in particular, stands out in this way,” Batke said. “I am eager to serve the College, and I look forward to partnering with alumni, students, faculty, and staff to preserve Carleton’s strengths and propel it to ever greater eminence.”
Read the full announcement on the Carleton College website.
Daren Batke was appointed in January 2024. The search was led by Lindauer Vice President and Managing Director Faith Montgomery and Consultant Alexandra Barber.