by Clare Duffy |
University president Fr. Mark Poorman announced in an email to staff yesterday that Laurie Kelley, vice president for university relations, has accepted a position with Providence Foundations. She will be working as president and chief development officer, leading philanthropic programs for Providence’s 10 foundations throughout Oregon.
Fr. Gerry Olinger has been appointed to move into Kelley’s role, effective Jan. 1, 2016. Fr. John Donato, who currently works as associate vice president for student development, will be taking over Olinger’s position of vice president for student affairs.
“I am personally grateful for the contributions of all three of these individuals to our University community, and excited for what the future will bring for each as they transition into their new roles,” Poorman said in the email.
Kelley has worked at the University for the past nine years. She served as director of marketing and communications prior to her current position, which she has held since 2013.
“Working at UP has been one of the highlights of my life. Truly. I have loved every one of the nine years I have been here and will miss this wonderful community very much,” Kelley said in an email. “I’m proud of the work that my team has accomplished and thank them all for their outstanding contributions. I thank Fr. Mark for his leadership and friendship and know that UP will continue to Rise (pun intended) throughout his presidency.”
Poorman echoed her influence on the University community and wished her well in her future with Providence, “a valued University and community partner.”
Olinger has been on The Bluff since 2009, working first as executive assistant to the president and, most recently, as vice president for student affairs.
It is not clear yet who will move into the associate vice president for student development position.
Both Olinger and Donato hold positions on campus beyond administration, including as pastoral residents in Schoenfeldt and Fields halls, respectively.
“I am very much excited and humbled for this opportunity,” Olinger said. “I think this will ground our work for telling our story as a University.”
Clare Duffy is a reporter for The Beacon. She can be reached at duffy17@up.edu or on Twitter @duffy17.
