CCU Welcomes Kara Johnston as Director of Alumni and Parent Relations
Kara Johnston, a seasoned professional in alumni relations and annual giving, has joined Colorado Christian University as the director of alumni and parent relations.
"I am excited to share my expertise with the CCU community," Johnston said. "I am delighted to deepen relationships between alumni, parents, and the University community, for the glory of God and the fulfillment of CCU's important mission."
Johnston brings more than a decade-and-a-half of experience in higher education to her new role at CCU. She previously served as the director of development and alumni relations at the Denver campus of Johnson and Wales University for eight-and-a-half years. Johnston also spent seven years as the director of alumni relations and annual giving at Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls, Oregon.
One of Johnston's key responsibilities will be growing the new CCU Fund, which has been launched to supplement scholarships, academics, and the student experience for all current CCU students.
Johnston will also be spearheading several projects intended to deepen bonds between alumni, students and their families, and the University. She has been tasked with establishing a comprehensive and professional parent relations department for the College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS). For the College of Adult and Graduate Studies (CAGS), Johnston will be developing an overarching effort to better connect CAGS alumni to their alma mater. Additionally, Johnston will be responsible for the annual homecoming celebration, which incorporates legacy alumni of Denver Bible Institute, Western Bible, Rockmont College, and CCU.
"Ms. Johnston brings 19 years of alumni and parent relations and beneficial strategies to CCU," Eric Hogue, vice president of University Advancement said. "As University enrollment continues to climb at a historic rate, CCU faces a great need in assisting, supporting, and cultivating alumni and parent relations; Kara is uniquely qualified for the road ahead."
Johnston is a native Coloradan, and has one son serving in the U.S. Army and two teenage daughters. She enjoys serving as a vocalist in the contemporary worship group at her church, hiking, and camping.