Browne, who will report directly to McLaughlin, will be responsible for leading Hamilton’s student recruitment strategy, managing the selection process, and overseeing operational support within the Admission Office.
“Jake is an established leader in the field [who] brings experience as a strategic leader and thoughtful manager,” McLaughlin said. “Jake has a proven track record of success at both Eckerd and Wagner colleges, with a commitment to data-informed decision-making, a commitment to diversity and excellence, and a steadfast belief in the transformative potential of a liberal arts and science education. He has served on multiple committees and working groups, and has represented his institutions at the national level. I look forward to working with Jake as a thought partner and leader to guide the Hamilton Admission Office into a new chapter.”
Browne, who holds an M.B.A. in marketing and a bachelor’s degree in history from Wagner College, has nearly 20 years of professional admission experience, including over a decade in leadership roles. Before his promotion to dean at Eckerd College, he served for seven years as director of admission. Prior to that, he was director of admission at his alma mater. He has represented his institutions by presenting at the National Association for College Admissions Counseling conference.
“As a first-generation college graduate, I am excited by the promise of a Hamilton education that is accessible to students regardless of financial need. I look forward to communicating the opportunities and differentiators of a Hamilton experience,” Browne commented. “I believe that the best undergraduate experience can be found at America’s small residential liberal arts colleges, and I look forward to contributing to the Hamilton community so that future generations can ‘Know Thyself.’
“On a personal note, I enjoyed meeting many members of the Hamilton community — both within and outside the enrollment division — and I’m excited to work alongside everyone to help prospective students discern if Hamilton is their best fit,” Browne said.