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CORVALLIS, Ore. - James "Jim" Patterson, city manager and CEO of the City of Corvallis, has been named the Oregon State University Foundation's new senior associate athletics director/senior director of development for intercollegiate athletics.

Patterson brings to the foundation 12 years of experience in the public sector as well as 20 years of experience in private sector sales, executive sales management, marketing and promotions. In addition to providing leadership to the OSU Foundation athletics development staff and Our Beaver Nation, he will oversee fundraising communications, donor relations and the annual fund for OSU athletics, all of which support Beaver student-athletes.

The unit recently surpassed its $180 million fundraising goal as part of The Campaign for OSU and has begun planning for its next major initiatives. In his new role, Patterson will report directly to Mike Goodwin, president and CEO of the OSU Foundation.

As city manager and CEO of the City of Corvallis, Patterson led the strategic rebuilding of the city's general fund reserves to more than $5 million; successfully negotiated union contracts projected to save the city millions of dollars in the future by moving employees to more affordable health care plans; and spearheaded the creation of a city budget development process that requires firm expenditure limits and revenues that equal expenditures.

Patterson is no stranger to the Oregon State community. As city manager, he worked as a partner and collaborator with various OSU entities, including the president's office and board of trustees, to strengthen and enhance the relationship between the city and the university community. He is the public address announcer for OSU women's basketball, an OSU parent and longtime supporter of Beaver athletics.

"I am proud to be joining two great organizations whose partnership has meant so much to OSU," said Patterson. "The campaign has demonstrated the significant impact generous donors can have. I know that Oregon State University aspires to continue to improve the educational experience for all students and I look forward to being a part of that effort."

The candidates who came forward for this position "made it a very competitive field," according to OSU Foundation President and CEO Goodwin.

"Jim's skills and knowledge stood out in what was a highly competitive national search," Goodwin said. "He brings a wealth of critical experience to this role with the foundation, as well as a great deal of enthusiasm and relationship-building skills that will rally support for Beaver athletics."

Prior to serving as the Corvallis city manager and CEO, Patterson served in the same capacity for the City of Sherwood, Oregon, from 2004-11. His time in the private sector included positions with United Advertising Media, United and Allied Van Lines, and OWNCO Marketing in Portland. He earned a bachelor's degree from Portland State University.

Patterson will begin his work at the OSU Foundation on Aug. 25.