Kirstin Ivy

Director of Philanthropy

As a dedicated lifelong learner, Kirstin Ivy is deeply passionate about education and philanthropy, making the role of director of philanthropy for a university her dream job. With a public school teacher background, Ivy has firsthand experience with the transformative power of education. Her graduate studies have further equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of educational systems and philanthropic strategies. She is eager to leverage this unique blend of experience and knowledge to effectively connect donors with meaningful opportunities to support the university’s mission and initiatives. Ivy’s goal is to serve as a bridge between the philanthropic community and the university, fostering partnerships that advance educational excellence and opportunity for all.

A Conversation with Kirstin Ivy

How do you help students?

As director of philanthropy, I transform my passion for supporting students academically and socioemotionally into tangible actions, ensuring that those pursuing postsecondary education have access to exceptional resources and support. By cultivating relationships with donors and securing philanthropic investments, I facilitate scholarships, program enhancements, and infrastructure improvements that directly benefit students. These resources not only enable access to quality education but also enrich the academic experience, providing students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Ultimately, my role is to champion student success by harnessing the generosity of donors to create a more supportive educational environment, where every student can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.

What would you tell a student who is thinking about attending A&M-Commerce?

I love this university because of its commitment to providing robust support and a positive university experience for students. This includes competitive athletic teams, student advocacy and support programs, active Greek chapters, and financial aid opportunities designed to ease their transition into higher education. Our dedication extends to fostering connections between urban and rural communities, creating a supportive and welcoming environment where students from various backgrounds can share experiences and resources. This interconnected approach enriches the academic and social fabric of our institution and ensures that all students, regardless of their origin, receive the support they need to succeed.

Describe an obstacle you overcame in the past or are working to overcome to achieve a personal or professional goal.

After high school, my life circumstances led me to take a nontraditional path toward earning my undergraduate degree. Indeed, I graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in English from UTA while expecting my second child. I recall vividly how much the experience of attending university courses excited and engaged me, and how it sparked a desire to pursue a master's degree. However, it wasn't the right time in my life, and I put this dream on hold for almost 20 years, despite applying for and being accepted into five different master's programs for five different degree programs soon after finishing my bachelor's.

At the age of 41, a dear friend encouraged me to try again. I was applying to school districts for my first teaching position, which would also be my first professional role since earning my bachelor's degree. Motivated by these changes, I decided to pursue a master's degree once more. Since then, I have earned two master's degrees in education, attempted a doctorate twice, and I am close to completing a third master's degree in nonprofit administration.

Engaging with the university setting has been a deeply fulfilling experience. Supporting students as they work to achieve their own educational aspirations through whatever pathway suits them best is incredibly meaningful to me. Serving A&M-Commerce as a director of philanthropy suits my passions perfectly!

Education

• M.A., Non-Profit Arts Administration, Louisiana State University at Shreveport, Expected 2025
• M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, University of North Texas, 2020
• M.Ed., Educational Leadership, University of North Texas, 2019
• B.A., English, University of Texas at Arlington, 2001

Professional Experience

• St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church Dallas, TX Mission and Outreach Coordinator, 2023-2023
• Treasured Vessels Foundation Dallas, TX Director of Development, 2022-2023
• Keller Independent School District Keller, TX Dyslexia Specialist, 2020-2022
• Vista Ridge Middle School Keller, TX Special Education Teacher, 2018-2020

Professional Organizations

• Association of Fundraising Professionals
• National Society of Leadership and Success

Awards and Honors

• Kappa Delta Honor Society Member
• Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society Member