St. John Fisher College Appoints Biehn Vice President for Institutional Advancement

St. John Fisher College has appointed Chris Biehn as the vice president for institutional advancement. Biehn, who has been serving in the role in an interim capacity since March, will begin at the College on August 10.

“Chris's demonstrated experience as a leader in higher education philanthropy, commitment to strategic engagement, and dedication to working to providing today’s students with a transformative education make him a great fit for our campus community. Chris is an accomplished, collaborative, and mission-focused professional who will continue to help us move Fisher forward at this crucial time in our history,” said Dr. Gerard J. Rooney, president of the College.

In his new role, Biehn will serve as a member of the president’s cabinet and senior staff and will oversee Fisher's alumni relations and advancement teams. He will also continue to lead the College's comprehensive campaign, Fisher Forward, which launched in September 2019.

Biehn brings to Fisher over 32 years of experience as a leader in higher and secondary education. Most recently, he served as senior consultant with Washburn & McGoldrick working with clients on the creation and implementation of engagement and development strategies, and the development of multi-year strategic plans for the firm’s advancement division.

Prior to working with Washburn & McGoldrick, he served as vice president of college relations and advancement at Ithaca College. There, he focused on planning and executing a successful campaign and was also responsible for marketing, public relations, and crisis communications. He led in the creation of a student to alumni paradigm which supported the integration of enrollment, student educational experience, and alumni engagement. In addition, he led efforts focused on inclusive excellence for volunteers and alumni leaders to ensure that constituents were aligned with the campus philosophy and approach.

Biehn has also served as the vice president for university advancement at Drew University and the chief advancement officer for the Williston Northampton School in Easthampton, Massachusetts.

“I am thrilled to be joining St. John Fisher College at this critical moment in history for both higher education and Fisher. Philanthropy continues to be an important differentiator in providing an outstanding educational experience, and I am honored to be leading our efforts in those areas working to strengthen alumni engagement for the benefit of our students,” said Biehn.