Dean Jerry Dickinson is pleased to announce that Kelly Sanzari has been named the University of Pittsburgh School of Law’s Director of Development.
Kelly brings more than a decade of experience in alumni relations and fundraising in higher education to her new role. Since joining Pitt in August 2023 as a central Major Gifts Officer in the division of Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement (PAE), she has excelled in cultivating meaningful relationships with colleagues, deans, faculty, donors, and prospects, helping her exceed fundraising goals for the past two fiscal years.
“Kelly’s record of achievement, strategic mindset, and genuine care for people make her the ideal leader to advance Pitt Law’s development efforts,” said Dean Jerry Dickinson. “Her ability to build authentic connections with our alumni and donors will be instrumental as we continue to expand the School’s reach, resources, and impact.”
Within PAE, Kelly has demonstrated exceptional leadership and collaboration. She has served on Pitt’s PAE United Way Committee, PAE Onboarding Revamp Committee, and the Panthers Forward Essay Review Committee, as well as serving as a coach for new gift officers and a host at the 2024 PAE Retreat. She is also a member of Pitt’s Staff Council and was recently appointed to represent Staff Council on the Mission & Academic Excellence committee of the Board of Trustees.
Before joining Pitt, Kelly held key development and alumni engagement roles at Thiel College the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater PA, and Geneva College, where she served as Director of Alumni Engagement. At Geneva, she designed and implemented a comprehensive strategic plan that strengthened alumni involvement and giving, and fostered a lasting sense of community connection.
“I’m honored to serve Pitt Law in this new capacity,” said Kelly Sanzari. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to connect with alumni and friends who share such pride for Pitt’s mission and future. I look forward to building on that momentum and helping advance Dean Dickinson’s vision of excellence, access, and impact within the School of Law.”
A proud graduate of Thiel College (BA) and Slippery Rock University (MA), Kelly is also an active member of the Pittsburgh Chapter of Sigma Kappa and volunteers with several local nonprofits. She is a 2016 graduate of Leadership Shenango.
Kelly’s transition to Director of Development officially begins on November 3.