University of ƵFoundation names Tlisa Northcutt for primary leadership role
May 16, 2025
The University of Ƶ(UA) Foundation Board of Directors and UA President Pat Pitney are pleased to announce that Tlisa Northcutt has been selected to serve in the dual-role of UA Foundation president and chief development officer for the University of Alaska system.
“The UA Foundation Board of Directors has worked closely with Tlisa in her interim capacity since July, and we’ve seen firsthand her deep institutional knowledge and clear understanding of how the UA system functions,” said Meg Nordale, UA Foundation Board chair. “She brings a thoughtful, sensitive approach to the unique needs of each university, and her ability to connect donors with meaningful opportunities is essential to advancing our mission across the state.”
“Hiring Tlisa is a UA success story,” said UA President Pat Pitney. “She began her career at UA in 2000, and we can say proudly that her 25-year UAA and UA career path has led to this well-earned leadership opportunity. We are proud to have a longstanding, deeply committed employee now leading the UA Foundation.”
A lifelong Alaskan, Northcutt brings a unique combination of institutional knowledge, proven leadership, and steadfast commitment to philanthropy at UA. She holds a BA in Journalism and Public Communication from UAA, an MA in Philanthropy and Development from St. Mary's University of Minnesota, and has maintained the designation of Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) since 2009. Northcutt has been recognized for several achievements over the years, including making “The Top 50 Women Leaders of Alaska” list for Women We Admire in 2024.
In addition to being an alumna and dedicated staff member, Northcutt and her husband, Scott, are proud parents of two current UA students - one attending UAA and the other UAF.
As president, Northcutt will continue to work closely with the UA Foundation Board, the UA system president’s office, university chancellors and advancement teams across the three universities (University of ƵAnchorage, University of ƵFairbanks, and University of ƵSoutheast) to promote philanthropy across the university system.
The UA Foundation is an independent, nonprofit corporation established in 1974 to seek, secure and steward philanthropic support in partnership with the UA system. For more information on the UA Foundation and how to contribute, please visit .