Blackburn College Names Philip R. Foxman Vice President For Institutional Advancement

CARLINVILLE – Blackburn College has appointed Philip R. Foxman as Vice President for Institutional Advancement. He will oversee the College’s fundraising, alumni, and donor engagement, as well as related philanthropic initiatives, and will serve as a member of the President’s senior leadership team.

Foxman brings more than three decades of higher education experience to Blackburn. Most recently, he served as Associate Vice President for Advancement & Alumni Engagement at Beloit College, where he managed alumni engagement, annual giving, donor relations, stewardship, and development resources.

He joins Blackburn following a national search and at a time of strong institutional momentum, including enrollment growth, strong alumni support, and continued campus investment.

“From the start, it was clear that Phil is someone who leads with both strategy, heart, and integrity, “ said Larry K. Lee, President of Blackburn College. “He believes deeply in institutions like Blackburn and understands how to build the foundation needed for sustained success. With extensive experience in advancement, tactical insight, and a strong record of building lasting relationships, he brings the talent and enthusiasm that make him an outstanding fit for our community and our future.”

He continued, “We have welcomed larger incoming classes in each of the past two years and are expecting a record class this year. We also benefit from a wonderfully supportive alumni base. He is the right leader to build the systems our organization needs to guide our institution toward success in the future.”

Before joining Beloit, Foxman spent more than 30 years at Allegheny College in positions of increasing responsibility, including Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement. He played leadership roles in multiple successful comprehensive campaigns, directed alumni and family engagement efforts, and helped launch programs connecting students with alumni for career mentoring and professional networking.

“I am honored to join the Blackburn College community at such an exciting and positive moment in its history,” said Foxman. “Blackburn’s commitment to access, student-centered approach, and deeply supportive culture are inspiring and closely aligned with my own values. There is something truly special about a place where, through the Work Program, every student takes meaningful ownership of the College’s operations and success and positively contributes to their peers' experiences. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to meeting and working with Blackburn’s dedicated alumni and supporters to help deepen their engagement and connection to this remarkable institution.”

Foxman holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Allegheny College. He is expected to begin his role at Blackburn on Tuesday, May 26.

About Blackburn College

Founded in 1837, Blackburn College is a four-year, Presbyterian-related, co-educational liberal arts college located in Carlinville, Illinois. One of only ten federally recognized Work Colleges, Blackburn is the only Work Program in the nation managed by students. Balancing academic rigor and experiential learning, each student at Blackburn gains tangible experience and develops critical skills by contributing to their community, all while building a resume and earning their degree. Washington Monthly named Blackburn College the Top Bachelor's College in Illinois and 20th in the nation for 2025, highlighting the College’s success in alumni earnings performance, student preparation for Ph.D. programs, and leadership in access for low-income students. U.S. News & World Report has recognized Blackburn College as one of the best colleges in the Midwest region for 2026 and also named it a top 10 performer for social mobility.

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