Jennifer Karlson

Jennifer Karlson has a broad range of work experience, primarily focused on advancement and philanthropic development. From 2003 to 2005, they worked as a Financial Development Specialist for the South Central Wisconsin American Red Cross. Following that, from 2005 to 2008, they served as the Financial Development Director for the YMCA of Dane County. Jennifer then joined the University of Wisconsin Foundation in various roles, including Director of Development, Senior Director of Development, and Senior Director of Development and Strategy Manager for the College of Letters & Science, working with alumni to secure philanthropic support. In 2016, they became the Assistant Dean for Advancement at the UW-Madison College of Letters & Science. Since 2017, they have been employed at The University of Queensland, initially as the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Advancement) and currently as the Vice President of Advancement & Community Engagement, leading an ambitious alumni and community engagement program and driving philanthropic partnerships. Additionally, they have served as an Expert Judge for the 7NEWS Young Achiever Award QLD, representing Awards Australia.

Jennifer Karlson has a BA in African Studies and Zoology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Jennifer also has a Certificate in Fundraising Management from Indiana University Indianapolis. In addition, they hold an MSc in Health Promotion from Nebraska Methodist College and a Certificate in African Studies from the University of Ghana. Jennifer Karlson has obtained certifications such as CFRE from CFRE International and has participated in leadership programs like Leadership Greater Madison Class of 2007 and CIVITAS Class of 2006. Jennifer is currently pursuing a degree in Public Policy from Harvard Kennedy School, with an expected completion in 2025.