Laurie Evans-Dinneen joined Alaska Pacific University as the Chief Advancement Officer in May, 2021. Before that, she worked in development and senior management at several area nonprofits, including Cook Inlet Tribal Council, Alaska Humanities Forum, Archdiocese of Anchorage, and Anchorage School District.
Ms. Evans-Dinneen brings to APU nearly 20 years of experience in all facets of development – grant writing, corporate sponsorships, direct appeal fundraising, special events fundraising, major gift fundraising, donor engagement and relations, and donor appreciation. She received her two undergraduate degrees in Journalism/Public Relations and Literature/Poetry from Northern Illinois University and her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing/Poetry from the University of Oregon.
As Chief Advancement Officer, Ms. Evans-Dinneen provides institutional oversight for advancement and alumni relations, marketing and communications, and sponsored programs, as well as works closely with external affairs. APU has great capacity to shape the future and change the world through its faculty, students, and alumni. Partnering with people of like mind, donors inspire excellence by supporting bright students, high-caliber faculty, and significant research that benefits society, promotes innovations, contributes new knowledge, and improves lives. Ms. Evans-Dinneen is excited to be a part of these efforts assisting APU to fulfill its vision and mission.
Personally, Ms. Evans-Dinneen serves on the board of two nonprofit organizations, as well as is a member of Soroptimists International/Anchorage women’s organization. She is married to Jason Dinneen, also serving Anchorage area nonprofits, and has two teenage children involved in hockey, soccer, and other community activities.