We are excited to introduce you to the new Executive Director of Development, Heather Mason! Heather will lead our Office of Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement.
We sat down with her to learn more about her and how she wants to engage alumni.
Tell us a little about your professional background and what led you to Pitt Business.
I bring more than 25 years of experience leading fundraising and advancement for universities, academic medical centers, and health systems. Throughout my career, I’ve partnered with alumni, donors, faculty, and volunteer leaders to secure philanthropic investments that advance education, research, innovation, and student success.
My career began in pharmaceutical sales and marketing, where I developed a passion for the intersection of business, healthcare, and relationship building. That path led me to philanthropy and advancement, with leadership roles at UT Health, UC San Diego, Scripps Health, the University of Pennsylvania and Penn Medicine, and previously at the University of Pittsburgh’s Medical and Health Sciences Foundation.
Returning to Pitt is a true full-circle moment. Pitt Business’s commitment to innovation, leadership, and student success aligns closely with my values, and I was inspired by Dean Anderson’s vision and the collaborative culture across the school and Philanthropic & Alumni Engagement.
You’ve been at Pitt before; can you tell us a little about that previous role?
More than a decade ago, I served as Director of Development at the University of Pittsburgh Medical and Health Sciences Foundation, supporting the Department of Neurosurgery. Working with faculty, clinicians, and donors to advance research and patient care gave me a deep appreciation for Pitt’s collaborative culture and lasting impact, making this return especially meaningful.
What attracted you to this opportunity, and what made you want to join the Pitt Business community?
Pitt Business is at an exciting point in its evolution, with a bold vision for innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact. Having spent my career at the intersection of business and healthcare, I know how philanthropy can accelerate discovery and prepare future leaders.
The opportunity to partner with Dean Anderson and a talented, collaborative team made this role especially compelling. I’m excited to work with alumni, donors, faculty, students, and colleagues to advance the school’s strategic priorities.
How do you see alumni philanthropy contributing to the school’s future success?
Alumni are central to the future of Pitt Business. Their philanthropy, mentorship, leadership, and engagement expand opportunities for students, strengthen faculty excellence, and fuel innovation.
I look forward to building relationships with alumni, learning their stories, and connecting their passions with opportunities to make a lasting impact.
What are some priorities or goals you hope to accomplish during your first year?
My first priority is listening and learning—building relationships with alumni, donors, faculty, students, and colleagues while gaining a deep understanding of the school’s priorities.
Working closely with Dean Anderson and our PAE partners, I hope to deepen engagement, strengthen philanthropic support, and build partnerships that advance Pitt Business’s mission. Most importantly, I want every donor to see the meaningful impact of their generosity.
What would you like alumni to know about your approach to building relationships and fostering a culture of giving?
Relationships always come first. Every alumnus has a unique connection to Pitt Business, and my role is to listen, understand what matters most to them, and help create meaningful opportunities for engagement.
Whether through mentorship, volunteer leadership, advocacy, or philanthropy, every form of involvement strengthens our community and helps shape the next generation of business leaders.
What else would you like to share with our audience?
I’m passionate about connecting people with opportunities to create meaningful impact through philanthropy. Whether advancing innovation, expanding student opportunities, or strengthening communities this work is ultimately about people and lasting impact.
Originally from Philadelphia, my husband, Dan, and I are proud to call Pittsburgh home, where we’re raising our 11-year-old son, Matteo. Returning to the University of Pittsburgh is both professionally and personally meaningful, and I’m grateful to be part of the Pitt Business community.