Palmer comes to Northwestern with more than 15 years of experience in leadership and development roles. Most recently as director of philanthropy and community involvement for Allina Health Systems at their Owatonna Hospital location, Palmer successfully completed a $3 million capital campaign; established planned giving, major giving and annual giving programs; and created and was executive director of the hospital’s first-ever foundation.

Prior to his tenure with Allina, Palmer held key roles with the American Red Cross, the American Academy of Neurology, and served in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve.

Palmer replaces former chief development officer Brady Forseth, who left the University in late September 2009 to take a similar position with Starkey Hearing Foundation.

Source: Northwestern Health Sciences University, www.nwhealth.edu/nwtoday/index.html