Mari Tamez Myers

Marisela (Mari) Tamez Myers is a dynamic and results-driven higher education leader with extensive experience in fundraising, strategic planning, and budget management. Currently serving as the Director of Academic Initiatives at the University of Texas at Austin, Mari leads the development and implementation of innovative educational programs, courses, and curricula. Mari fosters interdisciplinary projects by working closely with faculty, department heads, and external partners. She supports promoting cutting-edge teaching while cultivating strategic partnerships with academic institutions, organizations, and industry leaders.
Before this role, Mari served as the Managing Director of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Energy Center at UT Austin's McCombs School of Business. In these positions, Mari was instrumental in setting the long-term strategic vision for the Center, overseeing daily operations, managing a significant budget, and ensuring the efficient use of resources. Mari also played a crucial role in building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, representing the Center in public and industry events, and driving its financial sustainability and growth.
Earlier in Mari's career, she held leadership positions as Associate Director of Development at UT Austin's Law School. In this capacity, she successfully cultivated and stewarded significant gifts at the $100k+ level for a portfolio of donors across Texas, New York, DC, and Colorado. Mari was also responsible for launching the Law School's 100% giving challenge and managing regional donor committees in San Antonio and Denver, which helped enhance alumni engagement and support.
Mari's career also includes an impactful tenure as a Small Business Development Volunteer with the United States Peace Corps, where she worked closely with small business owners in an international setting to improve operational practices and secure funding. Mari also gained valuable experience as a Development Associate at the Cockrell School of Engineering, assisting in donor campaigns and major fundraising initiatives, including a $300MM building project.
Earlier roles in the private sector included tax consulting with Breedlove & Associates, where Mari provided payroll and tax services to clients, and consumer sales account management at Dell, where she developed a sales territory and fostered key business relationships.
With a BBA in Marketing from UT Austin and a current M.Ed. in Higher Education Leadership & Policy (anticipated 2025), Mari combines a strong academic foundation with deep expertise in organizational leadership, fundraising, and stakeholder management. Mari is known for a collaborative approach to leadership, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record in advancing institutional goals and securing funding.