Scaling New Heights

Patrick Alderdice, ’92, was in the best shape of his life. Entering what many consider “middle age,” he decided to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the largest free-standing mountain in the world. Then he climbed Mount Rainier, the highest peak in the U.S. Next, he conquered a trek up to Everest Base Camp.

But not long after that Everest climb, Mr. Alderdice—at that time running three miles a day—suddenly could run no more. He was now fatiguing while exercising, and regularly found himself short of breath. After some quick tests with his family physician, Mr. Alderdice was rushed to the hospital. Doctors determined he was in immediate need of open-heart surgery.

“My widowmaker was 99 percent blocked,” Mr. Alderdice said. “I thought I was in the best shape of my life. What I didn’t realize is that genetics don’t care about what kind of shape you’re in. So, six months after coming off Everest Base Camp, I ended up having quintuple bypass surgery.”

Despite this unexpected and life-threatening challenge, Mr. Alderdice’s resilience and determination—qualities he honed during his transformative years at Ball State University—saw him through recovery. His journey from a young student navigating campus life to a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist underscores the profound impact that Ball State had on his personal and professional development.

Discovering Ball State

Mr. Alderdice grew up in Fort Wayne, Ind., where he attended Bishop Luers High School. As a member of the 1985 state championship football team, he developed a strong sense of teamwork and perseverance.

Despite his active involvement in sports, Mr. Alderdice admits, “I was never a great student, but I had a great high school experience.”

The turning point in his educational journey came during a high school Journalism Day visit to Ball State.

“The campus was beautiful, especially on that Spring day,” Mr. Alderdice recalled. “I knew then Ball State was the place for me. It was close enough to home to feel secure but far enough to give me the independence I needed.”

Mr. Alderdice chose Ball State for its welcoming atmosphere and potential for personal growth. This choice set the stage for a transformative experience that would shape his future in profound ways.

A Leader Emerges

Initially enrolled at Ball State as a journalism major, Mr. Alderdice quickly switched to political science, discovering a passion that aligned more closely with his interests.

Although his early days were spent mostly within his residence hall, a pivotal decision to join the Delta Chi fraternity during his sophomore year opened doors to countless opportunities.

Through Delta Chi, Mr. Alderdice became deeply involved in campus life, ultimately holding several key leadership positions in the Student Government Association (SGA), including vice president and chief justice of the judicial court.

His involvement in the SGA brought him into close contact with Dr. Don Mikesell, Ball State’s longtime former dean of students, who played a significant role in Mr. Alderdice’s development.

“Dean Mikesell was more than an administrator—he was a mentor and a guide,” Mr. Alderdice said. “His integrity and commitment to students were inspiring.”

Through their collaboration on the University’s disciplinary committee, Dr. Mikesell quickly saw a bright future ahead for Mr. Alderdice.

“I placed a lot of value on his judgment,” Dr. Mikesell recalled. “When Patrick accepts a responsibility, he goes after it with everything he’s got. He’s going to do his absolute best.”

Giving Back

Upon graduating from Ball State in 1992, Mr. Alderdice embarked on a successful career, initially working as a leadership consultant for the Delta Chi Fraternity.

In 1996, he joined Pennington & Company, a firm specializing in fraternity and sorority fundraising. By 1999, he had become president and CEO, transforming the company into a national leader. Under his leadership, the firm grew significantly, raising more than $1.1 billion in his tenure.

Mr. Alderdice’s professional success allowed him to give back to his alma mater, first by significantly funding scholarships for deserving students, and then through his substantial contribution to the creation of the Alderdice Gates.

The gates and their integrated water feature, dedicated to his parents, are located on West Ashland Avenue between the McKinley Parking Garage and the Foundational Sciences Building, and provide a welcoming south entrance to the campus, leading north along the James W. Lowe East Mall.

“When Patrick learned we were looking for a donor to complete this project, he graciously offered to help, knowing how critical such gateways are to welcoming visitors to our vibrant campus,” Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns said at the Alderdice Gates dedication in 2022. “Patrick, thank you again for your philanthropic gifts to our University—gifts that support the success of our students. Your gifts contribute to the sense of place of our beautiful campus.”

Mr. Alderdice is also passionate about giving back to his alma mater in other meaningful ways. He was elected to the Ball State University Foundation Board of Directors in 2017, serving as secretary of the board.

This Fall, Mr. Alderdice begins his appointment as Foundation Board chair—a responsibility he does not take lightly as the University continues to move forward with its ambitious and comprehensive campaign, Our Call to Beneficence. The initiative has a goal of raising a record $350 million in philanthropic gifts to support dozens of vital projects across the institution.

“What I found as an undergraduate, and I’m finding as an alumnus, is the more I give back, the more I’m getting in return,” Mr. Alderdice said.

‘True Purpose’

To get a sense of Mr. Alderdice’s grit and positive outlook, look no further than just six months after being rushed in for open-heart surgery. Determined to get back to his newfound hobby of mountaineering, he successfully hiked down and back up the Grand Canyon.

He hasn’t stopped there, having since hiked the Torres del Paine trail in Patagonia, Machu Picchu Mountain in Peru, and the Tour Du Mont Blanc in the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps. This Summer, he traveled to Italy to conquer the Dolomite Mountains.

Mr. Alderdice’s love of travel and exploration mirrors his passion for his alma mater. His contributions to Ball State, both through his leadership and his philanthropy, have made a lasting impact on the University. As he looks to the future, Mr. Alderdice remains committed to supporting Ball State and creating opportunities for the next generation of students.

“Success is not just measured by what you achieve, but by what you give back,” he said. “And in giving, we find our true purpose.”