Loria Oliver has joined the Division of Advancement as director of development for the Division of Student Affairs. Oliver brings over 20 years of fundraising, communications and public relations experience to the University of Arkansas.
As director of development, Oliver will support the division’s philanthropic objectives and help facilitate the development of transformative student experiences through the strategic oversight and management of fundraising efforts. Through the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of potential benefactors, Oliver will enable Student Affairs to pursue its mission to promote student well-being, sense of community and success.
“Loria brings a wealth of experience as a philanthropy professional,” said Jeremy Battjes, vice chancellor for student affairs. “Her experience building relationships with benefactors, managing budgets, leading a team, working collaboratively, and stewarding gifts aligns with division and university priorities in building an environment of student success.”
“We are excited to welcome Loria as a member of the team in the Advancement Division,” said Scott Varady, vice chancellor for advancement. “She has an exceptional background in successful fundraising efforts, relationship building and entrepreneurial endeavors that make her a great partner and advocate for Student Affairs and the university.”
Oliver is an experienced fundraiser who has spent much of her career in alumni and donor relations, communications and public relations. Oliver joined the university most recently from Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, where she served as chief development officer. Prior to that, she held roles as donor relations manager, assistant director of development and donor relations, and director of development for the museum. Oliver began her role at the university on Oct. 28.
“As I embark on this new journey at the University of Arkansas, I am filled with enthusiasm and pride,” said Oliver. “This role presents an exciting opportunity to support students in a multitude of transformative ways. I look forward to working with an amazing team and promoting the well-being and success of our student population.”
Oliver’s career began with various communications and public relations roles in Georgia, New York and Texas. In 2007, she began fundraising as manager of individual giving, memberships and annual fund for The Health Museum in Houston, Texas. Oliver then moved to education as the alumni relations coordinator for the John Cooper School in The Woodlands, Texas.
Oliver relocated to Northwest Arkansas in 2011, when she founded Oliver Wilson Consulting, a boutique public relations and fundraising firm based in Bentonville. Her next endeavor involved the development, manufacturing and distribution of The Tot Tote, a product she patented, marketed and sold as the owner of Turtle Place Brands.
Oliver holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication and public relations from Clark Atlanta University. She was part of the 2021 class of Celebrate Arkansas Magazine’s “Ones to Watch,” which honors individuals who contribute to the growth and betterment of the region. Oliver is a board member of the Arkansas Methodist Foundation.
Oliver is married to Kent, and they have two sons, Edward and Konrad.
A version of this story ran in Arkansas News.