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O’Rourke-Dyer named VP of Advancement at The Woods

News | 03.28.2012

ORourkeK.jpgSaint Mary-of-the-Woods College is pleased to announce the appointment of Karen O’Rourke-Dyer as vice president for advancement, with responsibility for development, alumnae/i relations and advancement services. She begins her duties on April 2, 2012.

O’Rourke-Dyer brings 15 years of higher education experience with all aspects of fundraising, including managing advancement operations; facilitating stewardship; directing annual, planned, major and principle giving; and nurturing relationships with foundations and corporations. Serving on the president’s cabinet, her vision in the strategic planning and administration of the College’s advancement activities will help strengthen the mission of this 171-year-old institution.

In announcing the appointment, Dottie King, Ph.D., president of SMWC, praised O’Rourke-Dyer’s effectiveness as a leader and proven track record of fundraising success.

“We are fortunate to have an experienced and accomplished individual ready to step into this important role. I am confident in Karen’s commitment to developing innovative programs and strengthening partnerships that align with our core values of excellence in teaching, strong student focus and service to community.”
   ~Dottie King, Ph.D., President of SMWC

O’Rourke-Dyer most recently served as the interim vice president for development at Indiana State University Foundation. During her tenure at Indiana State University, she managed a portfolio of major gift prospects, oversaw coordination of donor cultivation and stewardship activities and played a key role in the strategic development for gift prospects. Additionally, she played a significant role in the completion of the $85 million capital campaign at ISU and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology’s $200 million Vision to be the Best campaign in 2004.

“I welcome the opportunity to share my experience, to help The Woods tell its wonderful story and to further engage its alums, donors and friends,” said O’Rourke-Dyer. “Through a strategic advancement effort, together we will build on our rich history while advancing the mission of the College.”

O’Rourke-Dyer holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in school administration and supervision from ISU. She serves on several boards of directors, including Council for Advancement and Support of Education, Hospice of the Wabash Valley, Leadership Wabash Valley, Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra and Wabash Valley Family Sports Center.

She is married to husband, Brian Dyer, senior vice president and trust officer for Terre Haute Savings Bank. Together they have four children: Ryan, Scott, Brandon and Kirstin.