September 12, 2024 – Elizabeth “Liz” DeLucia brings deep leadership experience in fundraising and strategic planning to her new role as vice dean for development and alumni relations. Prior to joining Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health on August 19, she spent 14 years at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and held prior fundraising roles at Boston College, Dartmouth College, and Wheaton College. DeLucia earned a master’s in education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and a BA from the University of New Hampshire. In a recent interview, she discussed her priorities, her love of cooking, and her passion for connecting.
Q: What drew you to this role?
DeLucia: I was drawn to the opportunity to influence universal issues affecting populations. Harvard Chan School has tremendous potential for impact. I’m excited to lead the development and alumni relations team to fuel these possibilities and support Dean Baccarelli’s vision.
Q: What excites you most about your work in development?
DeLucia: Development is often measured in numbers, but the real magic comes from making connections. Great things come when you connect people with programs, place, and purpose. Whether it’s alumni, faculty, staff, or donors, I’m in my element “matchmaking.”
Q: Who has been the biggest influence in shaping who you are today?
DeLucia: My parents placed a strong emphasis on education and giving back. Neither attended college but they encouraged the pursuit of higher education. They also set an example through volunteerism and their own philanthropy. Their spirit of service to others created a foundation for my career in philanthropy.
Q: What’s the best advice you were ever given?
DeLucia: I did a lot of networking when I first entered development. When I thanked one senior professional for her time, she replied that she prioritized such meetings, as she saw them as an investment in the future of the field. She encouraged me to do the same. Despite the demands of my schedule, I always try to meet with people interested in learning about the field.
Q: What are your priorities for your first six months?
DeLucia: Making connections is my primary focus. Listening and learning from all constituencies will be key to building successful relationships. Cultivating our team and aligning our work to support Dean Baccarelli’s priorities top my list.
Q: When you’re not at work, what activities help you recharge?
DeLucia: I love anything food-related: planning menus, cooking, baking, and trying new restaurants. My passion for food has led me to take culinary-oriented vacations. Food brings people together for conversation and celebration, which aligns with my appetite for connecting people.
Photo: Kent Dayton