university representative
Patricia McLaughlin, J.D.
Senior Vice President
Institutional Advancement
Johnson & Wales University
Providence, RI
Patricia McLaughlin joined Johnson & Wales University as senior vice president, institutional advancement in early 2006. Her previous experience includes, most recently, serving as the director of corporate, foundation and government relations for Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) for four years. Prior to her work at RISD, she held various positions for the City of Providence for twelve years, including director of administration; deputy city solicitor, law department; and assistant city solicitor.
McLaughlin’s current role at J&W includes the overall responsibility for defining a vision for philanthropy that supports the university’s long-range strategic plans and goals. In addition to advising President Bowen on advancement and communications issues, she is responsible for maintaining relationships with and raising funds from independent donors, foundations and corporations. She also oversees the University advancement staff and the advancement officers for each of J&W’s four campuses.
McLaughlin oversees alumni relations and all components of the university’s Creative Services Group, which include University Communications, J&W Magazine, Culinary Marketing and Design and Editorial Services. She is also responsible for positioning J&W in the national media and enhancing the university’s reputation locally, nationally and internationally.
A member of the University Leadership Team, McLaughlin earned her bachelor of science degree in political science at Providence College and her juris doctor from The George Washington University, The National Law Center, Washington, D.C.
In addition to her dedication to the field of higher education through her position at J&W, McLaughlin has been teaching courses in general law at Providence College since 1999.
A resident of Providence, McLaughlin is strongly committed to the community she lives and works in, and serves on the boards of WaterFire Providence, The Providence Center, Splendor of Florence USA, and is a member of the executive committee for Housing Works.