Mari Oliver is a passionate and strategic development professional with a strong track record in individual giving, donor engagement, and equity-centered fundraising. As Individual Giving Officer at Chicago Opera Theater, she leads efforts to build and sustain meaningful relationships with donors, connecting them to the company’s bold artistic mission and commitment to accessibility.

Prior to joining COT, Mari served as Associate Director of Development at the University of Texas at Austin’s Longhorn Donor Outreach Center. In this role, she oversaw a team of 40 student fundraisers, managing recruitment, training, and performance while executing strategic campaigns to deepen alumni engagement and drive philanthropic giving. She played a key role in UT Austin’s CRM transition, collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve data systems, donor tracking, and reporting. Mari also designed and implemented customized donor strategies that elevated the university’s mission and expanded support for underrepresented communities.

A proud DePaul University graduate with a degree in African and Black Diaspora Studies, Mari brings a deep commitment to social justice, community empowerment, and inclusive philanthropy to every aspect of her work. Her approach is rooted in the belief that transformational giving starts with authentic connection and shared purpose. In her free time, Mari loves cooking and baking, exploring new restaurants, and watching true crime with her pup, Whittaker.