Maryville’s Office of Development and Alumni Relations announces two key leadership positions to generate support for Maryville students, faculty, academic programs and capital projects. Michael Whitley will serve as senior major gift officer and Pamela Kramer has been named major gift officer.
“We are pleased to welcome Michael and Pamela to Maryville,” said Margaret Onken, vice president for development and alumni relations. “Their leadership will help amplify the University’s efforts to advance access and affordability for all students, particularly first-generation college students, students of color and students from underrepresented groups.”
Michael Whitley, Senior Major Gift Officer
Whitley will expand Maryville’s relationships with corporate and community foundations at a time when the University has become more intentional and strategic in building its scholarship endowment. Maryville also continues to expand its academic and athletic facilities to enhance the student living and learning experience.
“I believe education is the great equalizer,” Whitley said. “I grew up in St. Louis City and education made a major difference in my life. I want to provide opportunities for future generations of students to help break the cycle of poverty and ensure their success in college and in the workforce and in life.”
Previously, Whitley served as development director for St. Louis Public Schools Foundation. The Foundation works closely with District leaders to raise funds and implement programs in critical areas, serving more than 23,000 students across 68 schools and early childhood center.
Whitley also served as director of development for College Bound – St. Louis where he provided leadership, strategic direction and management of fundraising efforts. College Bound provides underrepresented students the support they need to graduate high school and college to pursue meaningful careers.
Whitley earned a bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University. He also holds nonprofit leadership certifications from Harvard University and Washington University in St. Louis.
Pamela Kramer, Major Gift Officer
Kramer will work closely with alumni to ensure they feel connected to Maryville’s active, multi-dimensional campus. She looks forward to establishing meaningful connections with alumni and reimagining ways to engage alumni based off their interests and motivations.
“I am excited to continue cultivating a culture of philanthropy among Maryville graduates of all ages,” Kramer said. “My job is to connect alumni with opportunities that fulfill them and help them leave their legacy on the Maryville community.”
Most recently, Kramer was manager of alumni relations for Webster University. She was responsible for alumni engagement efforts and events, as well as managing special advancement initiatives including annual fund giving.
Kramer also held positions at The Laclede Group, now Spire Inc., including managing corporate foundation grants and employee-giving campaigns. She holds a bachelor’s in communication and a master’s in nonprofit leadership from Webster University.