OCAD University’s new Executive Director of Advancement Mary Koutsoubos is a strategic fundraising professional whose career spans 20 years in the Canadian charitable sector, with an expertise in the arts and culture sector.
“I am thrilled that Mary has joined OCAD U in this new role. Throughout her career, she has shown an exemplary commitment to supporting the arts and culture sector with contagious passion and enthusiasm,” says Ilene Sova, a member of the hiring committee and the Ada Slaight Chair of Contemporary Drawing and Painting. “I believe she will be a wonderful advocate for the goals and missions of the University to foster students who will solve the challenges of our times through the power of art and design."
Koutsoubos, who started in her new position on August 16, is a member of the University’s Senior Leadership Team, reporting directly to President and Vice-Chancellor Ana Serrano. As part of her role, she will work in collaboration with both faculty and staff across the institution to foster a culture of engaged philanthropy and strengthen the institution’s fundraising efforts to support its academic mission.
“Mary brings considerable leadership and operational experience in philanthropy and major donor engagement to this very important role. OCAD U is indeed fortunate to have her expertise, enthusiasm and passion for the arts,” says President Serrano. “She will build on the foundation we have created over the past year, which has focused on transparency, open communication and interdepartmental collaboration."
Prior to coming to OCAD U, Koutsoubos was Deputy Director of Development at the National Ballet of Canada where she led all aspects of the individual giving portfolio, successfully surpassing financial goals during this challenging pandemic year. She also played a critical role in the strategy and success of the National Ballet’s special campaign, Together for Ballet.
Koutsoubos was Director of Development at Soulpepper Theatre Company for many years where she led successful multimillion-dollar fundraising campaigns, and cultivated and strengthened donor engagement. Mary also served as Director of Major Gifts at the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and as Chief Development Officer at the Faculty of Fine Arts at the York University Foundation.
“I am excited to be a part of this vibrant and vital institution in what promises to be an exciting and pivotal time for art and design. The events of the past year have presented many challenges and exposed long-existing inequities and injustices in our society,” says Koutsoubos. “I look forward to working with members from across the OCAD U community to support the development of the next-generation of artists, creative leaders and problem-solvers who will lead the way in creating positive change.”