James Acton will become the next president of Ball State's Alumni Association, according to a university press release.
Acton, who has more than 25 years of experience in alumni relations, will also serve as the vice president of alumni engagement at the Ball State University Foundation, the press release states.
He began working in alumni relations straight out of college with the Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity in Indianapolis, followed by 12 years of progressive experience at Valparaiso University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, the release states.
Before accepting his position at Ball State, Acton served eight years at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago — most recently as its associate vice president of alumni and giving programs, it states.
Jake Logan, Ball State University Foundation president and vice president for University Advancement, said Acton has developed a culture of planning, innovation, and metric-driven evaluation in each role throughout his career.
"Jamie is well prepared for this key leadership role,” Logan said. “He has broad experience in many aspects of alumni relations, which will allow him to hit the ground running. He is the right leader to continue to build upon the Ball State Alumni Association’s incredible momentum.”
Logan thanked Debbie Linegar, for her service as interim associate vice president of alumni engagement and president of the Ball State Alumni Association during the nationwide candidate search process.
Mike Earley, Ball State Alumni Council Vice Chair, who served on the executive search committee, said Acton stood out in the search process to find the right person for the role.
“Jamie is a proven leader who clearly understands the importance of maintaining a vibrant alumni association,” Earley said. “We look forward to working with him and introducing him to our loyal alumni.”
Acton will assume his new roles at Ball State effective Dec. 3.