Development Associate Team
Development Associate Team (DA Team)
The Development Associate Team (DA Team) works cross-functionally with ARD teams on different projects, providing support on ad hoc projects, filling vacancies, and assisting during increased workflow. The DA Team was started in November 2014 with its first hire. Since that time, 29 other Development Associates have been hired and trained!
As a DA, you are trained in the foundational databases, systems, and processes of ARD to provide support where it is needed most at any given time. Additionally, the DA Team is a talent pipeline that emphasizes professional development while gaining a holistic understanding of the 400+ person Alumni Relations and Development Division at UChicago.
The DA Team is a great place for early career professionals or professionals wanting to make a career pivot to higher education advancement.
Development Associate
Marisa Matho
Marisa Mathó (She/Her) is a development professional passionate about the intersection of philanthropy, community, and impact. Previously as the Development Coordinator at the Climate Museum in New York, the first museum in the U.S dedicated to the climate crisis, she focused on prospect research, donor stewardship and data analysis. Leveraging these areas of expertise, she enabled exciting climate arts and justice programming in addition to a successful opening pop-up and major donor events.
Marisa attended the University of San Francisco and received her BA in International Studies with a Minor in Latin American Studies and a Concentration in Environment and Development. Born in the Boston area, Marisa has also lived in Uruguay, Argentina, UK and France.
In her free time Marisa can be found testing out new recipes and reading mysteries.
Development Associate
Semaj Lawshea
Semaj Lawshea (She/her) is an enthusiastic professional who has joined our team as one of our new Developmental Associates. Originally from Chicago, IL, Semaj ventured to Washington, DC, where she pursued a dual degree in Psychology and Business at Howard University. She recently achieved her master’s degree in human resource management from Roosevelt University in May 2023. Semaj is eager to collaborate with the team and build strong relationships with everyone. During her leisure time, she enjoys spending quality moments with friends and exploring various parts of the world. Over the past year, Semaj has had the opportunity to visit five different countries and six different states.
Development Associate
Tia White
Tia White (She/Her) is a published author and formally a progressive advocate for nonprofit organizations, focusing on improving underprivileged communities. She has used her creative thinking skills and passion for literature to fundraise for students in need and is looking forward to using said skills for further ventures. Before moving to Chicago, Tia lived in Madison, Wisconsin, where she received her BA in English and Black Studies. Tia is also a graduate student from the University of Chicago, where she received her MFA. With her history, she wants to utilize her experience as an alumnus for future projects with the University.
Outside of work, Tia enjoys writing poetry and watching Hitchcock movies.”