Lynn Staples, MBA

Lynn Staples, MBA, is a respected advancement leader and mentor with more than two decades of experience in higher education and nonprofit philanthropy. She currently serves as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Cedar Crest College, where she leads all fundraising, alumnae/i engagement, and advancement strategy for the institution. Under her leadership, Cedar Crest has generated strong philanthropic momentum, raising more than $5 million annually in support of scholarships, academic innovation, and student success.

Lynn’s career has been shaped by a deep commitment to mission-driven work, relationship-building, and the advancement of women through education and philanthropy. Prior to her current role, she held leadership positions at Muhlenberg College and Penn State Lehigh Valley, where she led successful fundraising initiatives, strengthened donor engagement, and built meaningful community partnerships. A first-generation college graduate, Lynn brings both strategic expertise and personal perspective to her work mentoring emerging professionals in the field.

Known for her optimistic leadership style, Lynn’s philosophy centers on leading with positivity, building others up, and creating environments where people can grow and thrive. She often encourages colleagues and mentees to “be the vibe, not kill the vibe,” fostering cultures of encouragement, collaboration, and momentum. She is passionate about helping others navigate and grow successful careers in philanthropy and beyond, particularly women seeking to lead with both confidence and authenticity.
Beyond her work at Cedar Crest, Lynn serves as Board Secretary for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley, is Vice President of the Parkland High School Boys Soccer Booster Club, and is an active member of the Allentown Rotary Club. She is also a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). A proud native of the Lehigh Valley, she earned her undergraduate degree from Muhlenberg College and her MBA from Cedar Crest College.

She lives in Orefield with her husband, Matthew, and enjoys cheering on her two children, Hannah (23) and Andrew (16), in all of their pursuits.