Washington Adventist University Appoints Karine Brown as Director of Advancement & Alumni Relations

TAKOMA PARK, Md. — Washington Adventist University (WAU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Karine Brown as its new Director of Advancement & Alumni Relations, effective July 27, 2026. Brown brings more than a decade of leadership experience in higher education administration, executive operations, institutional governance, and strategic project management to this important role.

Brown has served Washington Adventist University since 2023 in key leadership positions that have supported the institution’s strategic priorities and executive operations. She first served as Director of Distinctive University Operations, where she provided strategic oversight for presidential initiatives, institutional projects, and board operations. Most recently, she served as Senior Executive Assistant to the President, partnering closely with executive leadership while helping advance institutional effectiveness, alumni engagement, and advancement initiatives.

In her new role, Brown will provide leadership for the University’s advancement and alumni relations efforts, strengthening relationships with alumni, donors, friends, churches, and community partners while helping cultivate philanthropic support that advances Washington Adventist University’s mission and strategic priorities. Her experience in executive leadership, governance, and relationship management positions her to help expand the University’s culture of engagement and stewardship.

Before joining WAU, Brown served in the President’s Office at Northern Caribbean University (NCU), where she held progressively responsible leadership positions, including Executive Assistant to the President, Administrative Assistant to the President, and Secretary for the Graduate Counselling Psychology Department. She coordinated executive operations, managed board and cabinet functions, supported strategic planning initiatives, and served for one year as Secretary of the Northern Caribbean University Endowment Board, contributing to the governance of the university’s philanthropic initiatives.

Brown also brings valuable private-sector management experience, having overseen multi-unit retail and food service operations, where she successfully led teams, implemented operational improvements, and enhanced organizational performance. Her diverse professional background has equipped her with a strong foundation in leadership, organizational management, and operational excellence.

Academically, Brown holds a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resources and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Northern Caribbean University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Healthcare Administration at Washington Adventist University, further strengthening her expertise in leadership and organizational management.

Known for her professionalism, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to mission-driven service, Brown is recognized for her attention to detail and passion for building meaningful relationships that strengthen institutions. As Director of Advancement & Alumni Relations, she will help foster deeper connections with the University’s alumni and supporters while advancing initiatives that support student success and the continued growth of Washington Adventist University.