James Kellerhouse is the Division of Administration’s new assistant vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and executive director of operations and engagement for Vanderbilt University–New York City. The appointment marks a significant step in Vanderbilt’s efforts to expand its presence in one of the metropolitan and business capitals of the world.
Kellerhouse, a veteran administrator with extensive experience in higher education, will oversee the day-to-day operations of Vanderbilt’s New York City campus, while simultaneously leading strategic initiatives to enhance the university’s impact in the city.
Kellerhouse joined the Vanderbilt leadership team in March, 2025, with more than 25 years of building strategic relationships with prospective donors, corporations, foundations, elected officials and government agencies to advance institutional priorities in education and health care. Before joining Vanderbilt he served as the vice president for institutional advancement and external affairs at Hartwick College, helping to raise more than $7 million per year in private philanthropy and government grants and publicly launching a $50 million campaign for the school. Additionally, he led the career development and network engagement team overseeing the integration of career readiness, alumni and industry engagement, and professional networking into the student experience.
Before his work at Hartwick, Kellerhouse was vice president for philanthropy and chief development officer for the Albany Med Foundation, leading a team of 23 professionals to raise more than $18 million annually for the Albany Med Health System. He also served as the assistant dean for institutional advancement for Albany Law School.