St. Mary’s College of Maryland welcomed a new leader for its advancement and foundation efforts while announcing organizational changes to better support signature scholars programs.
Elizabeth H. Mitchell assumed the role of Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of the St. Mary’s Foundation effective July 13. Mitchell brings more than 30 years of advancement leadership in higher education.
Most recently, she served as Assistant Dean of Advancement for the Pamplin College of Business at Virginia Tech. Her career includes senior roles at Virginia Tech, George Washington University, the University of Maryland, Wheaton College and Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Mitchell earned her undergraduate degree from Smith College and a master’s from Harvard Divinity School, with a focus on nonprofit management, philanthropy and ethics. She has led major campaigns, secured transformational gifts and built strong relationships with donors, alumni and institutional leaders.
In her new position, Mitchell will oversee fundraising, alumni engagement and advancement operations while collaborating with the Foundation Board to foster lifelong relationships and a culture of philanthropy.
“Elizabeth Mitchell brings a remarkable depth of advancement experience and a proven record of building meaningful relationships that inspire philanthropic support,” said President Rhonda Phillips. “I am delighted to welcome her to St. Mary’s College and look forward to the leadership she will provide as we advance the College’s mission and future aspirations.”
Mitchell expressed enthusiasm for joining the institution. “St. Mary’s College’s mission, historic legacy, beautiful location, and the exceptional leadership of President Phillips and the dedicated Board of Trustees and Foundation Board members are why I am so excited to join this community,” she said.
The college also thanked Stephen McDaniel for his interim leadership in advancement over the past year.
In a related announcement, Provost and Dean of Faculty Katie Gantz, Ph.D., detailed changes to enhance support for scholars programs. Following a review of the IDEAA/Inclusion and Belonging unit, the Office of Equity Programming was renamed the Office of Belonging and Signature Scholars Programs and moved to the Division of Academic Affairs effective July 1.
The office, located in Lucille Clifton House, will continue supporting academic success, personal development and leadership for diverse students. It now oversees the Monument Scholars Program, consolidating signature initiatives including DeSousa-Brent Scholars, Sum Primus Scholars and Landers Scholars.
Michelle Carter was appointed the inaugural Dean of Belonging and Signature Scholars Programs. Alise Maxie serves as Assistant Director of Scholar Development and Multicultural Programming. Dr. José Ballesteros remains Faculty Liaison for an additional year, and Lisa Brown continues as Office Associate.
Gantz praised the collaborative process. “Bringing these programs together within Academic Affairs strengthens our ability to connect academic excellence, leadership development, and belonging in meaningful ways,” she said.
These changes reflect St. Mary’s College’s commitment to student success, access and excellence as a public liberal arts honors institution in Southern Maryland. The new leadership and realignment aim to deepen philanthropic support and academic opportunities for students.
