Falcons in Focus
Rachelle Kristof Hippler

Moving Forward, Giving Back

How BGSU shaped Mary Beth Pate’s path from marketing student to marketing leader, and inspired her to serve the University that shaped her. Pate ‘00 serves as vice president of philanthropy marketing, communications and donor experience for City of Hope and chairs the BGSU Foundation Board. 

Q: What is one of your favorite memories from your time at BGSU?
A:
 Graduation is definitely one of my favorite memories. It was such a meaningful moment to stand there with my friends, celebrating everything we had accomplished together. What made it even more special was sharing it with my parents, who worked incredibly hard to afford me the opportunity to go to college. I felt so proud to make them proud. And of course, my big brother and his family were there, too. He’s someone I’ve always admired. Seeing all of them together in that moment and celebrating together is something I’ll never forget.

Q: How did BGSU shape your career path or personal journey?
A:
 BGSU shaped my path in ways I couldn’t fully appreciate until years later. My professors not only taught the fundamentals of marketing and communications, but they also encouraged curiosity, creativity and a willingness to chase opportunities – even the unexpected ones. I started out passionate about sports marketing, and BGSU gave me the academic foundation, internships and mentorship to explore that world with positions at the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians) and Cleveland Browns. But what truly stayed with me were the transferable skills: storytelling, relationship‑building and strategic thinking. Those strengths eventually guided me toward healthcare marketing and communications, where the work feels deeply mission‑driven and personally meaningful. The experiences I had at BG – collaborating with classmates, taking on leadership roles, presenting big ideas – gave me the confidence to evolve professionally and trust that my career could grow in new and impactful directions. I have had the opportunity to grow in my career with Cleveland Clinic and now City of Hope. In so many ways, BGSU set the stage for every step of my career.

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your volunteer role with BGSU?
A: 
For me, the most rewarding part is being able to give my time back to a place that gave me so much. Bowling Green will always hold a special place in my heart, and staying connected through volunteer work feels like a meaningful way to honor that. I especially value the opportunity to support students, whether that’s through fundraising for scholarships, mentorship or helping open doors that might lead to future opportunities. I also appreciate the chance to contribute to fundraising efforts that strengthen the University. Knowing that the work we do helps create or enhance programs and expand resources for students makes the experience incredibly fulfilling. BGSU shaped my life in so many ways, and being able to play even a small role in shaping the next generation of Falcons is truly a privilege.

Q: What advice would you give to today’s BGSU students?
A:
 Get involved and stay engaged. BGSU offers so many opportunities – academic, social and professional – and the more you lean in, the more you’ll discover about yourself. Join organizations that spark your interest, take on leadership roles and build relationships with people who challenge and inspire you. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone; some of your most meaningful growth will come from trying something new. And stay connected to your classmates, your mentors and the broader BG community. Those relationships will continue to shape your life long after graduation.

Q: If you could go back and relive one day at BGSU, what would it be?
A:
 Bid Day for my sorority, Delta Gamma. It was the day I met many of my best friends, and the start of some of the most meaningful relationships and memories of my college years.

Updated: 02/18/2026 04:01PM