The Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) empowers students to become creative leaders and changemakers—nurturing bold ideas and artistic excellence that shape culture and community. Philanthropy plays a vital role in advancing this mission, and CCAD’s recent campaign demonstrates the power of strategic vision, even in uncertain times.
At the helm of this work was President Dr. Melanie Corn, alongside Chris Mundell, Vice President for Institutional Engagement, and fellow campaign leaders across the institution and Columbus community. Together, they led the college through a bold campaign launch in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this video, Dr. Corn and Chris reflect on their experience partnering with Benefactor Group for campaign counsel and share lessons learned from navigating a major initiative during a time of unprecedented disruption.
Watch the video now to hear their perspective on creative leadership, resilient planning, and how Columbus College of Art & Design turned uncertainty into opportunity.
About Dr. Melanie Corn
Dr. Melanie Corn is the fifth president of Columbus College of Art & Design. Since joining the college in 2016, Dr. Corn has made significant progress on the dual goals of building a national reputation for the college and strengthening CCAD’s role as a leading cultural institution in the region. She has overseen the implementation of a three-year strategic plan, the construction of the new state-of-the-art Cloyd Family Animation Center, and an increase in new applicants and in overall enrollment at the college.
About Chris Mundell
Chris Mundell leads CCAD’s efforts to build and sustain strategic partnerships that advance the college’s mission in the community and expand its network of supporters. As Vice President for Institutional Engagement, Mundell guides the teams responsible for alumni engagement, development, marketing & communications, corporate & community partnerships, and career services. He also leads the college’s government and community relations strategies and serves as chair of the Presidential Commission on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
With a higher education career spanning over 20 years, Mundell previously served as CCAD’s Vice President for Student Affairs and Title IX Coordinator. Prior to joining CCAD, he held various roles in student advising and learning support services at The Ohio State University.
Mundell earned his master’s degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Miami University and bachelor’s degree in History from Heidelberg University. Professionally, Mundell has been actively involved with ACPA—College Student Educators International, where he served as the chair for the Next Gen Conference, and has held a variety of roles on the governing board of OCPA (Ohio College Personnel Association) including past president. Mundell is a 2012 graduate of the Leadership Columbus Program and was named to Columbus CEO’s “Future 50” class in 2021. Mundell volunteers as a youth soccer coach in Hilliard, where he lives with his family.
If you’d like to know more about how Benefactor Group can support your campaign or fundraising effort, contact us today.
