Photo credit: Brandon Ngo
tracy norris
Tracee Norris has joined University Advancement as director of education and health professions development. Norris has 20 years of experience in higher education and has worked in university development since 2006. She started her new role on August 20th.
As director of development, Mr. Norris will support the university’s philanthropic goals through the development, recruitment and management of potential benefactors. She will help drive the university’s WE CARE strategic plan and help implement fundraising activities that align with university and university priorities.
Mr. Norris will work with the Dean’s Advisory Committee, the Alumni Award Selection Committee, and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.
“Tracy brings extensive experience in higher education fundraising and a deep commitment to student success to our team,” said Scott Varady, vice president for advancement. “She is a dedicated advocate of philanthropy that supports the College of Education and the health professions, and we are excited to welcome her to the Division of Advancement team.”
Norris most recently joined the university from the University of North Carolina at Asheville, where he served as associate director of development. Previously, Norris was the lead fundraiser for the University of South Florida’s College of Education and director of development for the College of Liberal Arts at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
“I am excited to join the great team at the College of Education and Health Professions,” Norris said. “My experience working at universities in education and health-related fields has shown me the importance of equipping future leaders with the skills they need to succeed. If I can contribute in some way to making someone’s dreams come true, I consider it a real honor.”
Dean Kate Mamiseishvili said: Her experience working at multiple higher education institutions and deep knowledge of education and health programs will add valuable insight to our fundraising efforts. I look forward to working closely with Tracee and fostering caring connections with alumni, donors, and partners. ”
Norris attended the Disney College Program as a college student and earned his “Ducktrait Degree” by completing 50 hours of Disney study and business courses. She credits her experience at Disney with helping her secure her first job at Western Kentucky University after graduation. Norris is still a Disney fan and frequently visits Disney with his family.
Norris is married to Chris Norris, a former president of the American Football Coaches’ Wives Association, and currently serves on its board. They have a daughter named Breeze, and the entire family supports animal rescue and adoption. They have two rescue dogs named Mojo and Karma.
Norris holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and French from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a master’s degree in sports management from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
About University Advancement: University Advancement advances the mission of the University of Arkansas by soliciting private gifts from alumni, friends, parents, foundations, corporations, and other institutional supporters. In partnership with academic leaders, volunteers and philanthropy, members of the Advancement Team are determined to advance the University of Arkansas’ people, work and collective impact.
About the University of Arkansas: The University of Arkansas is the state’s flagship institution, offering an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the University of A contributes to the economy of Arkansas through the education of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and employment development, and discovery through research and creative activities, while providing training in specialized fields. Contributing more than $1 billion. The Carnegie Foundation classifies U of A as one of the few universities in the United States with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks U of A among the nation’s top public universities. Find out how the U of A is working to build a better world with Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.
