Greetings Laker Community,
I am thrilled to join the LSSU Advancement team as the new Alumni & Annual Fund Director. I bring more than two decades of experience in the dynamic world of festival production, logistics, and promotion.
For nearly a decade, I managed housing solutions for a wide range of clients—including high-profile talent, essential personnel, and senior sponsorship executives—during and leading up to the high-demand SXSW Conference and Festivals. My work included hotel contracting, overseeing logistical details, and ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of clients within the fast-paced, ever-changing environment of this internationally renowned event. In this role, I collaborated directly with top festival sponsors, talent, and nearly every department across SXSW, coordinating contracted event blocks and helping deliver seamless experiences for key stakeholders.
Before SXSW, I spent almost a decade contributing to the production of the Kerrville Folk Festival and the annual Southwest Regional Folk Alliance conferences. These experiences gave me a deep, comprehensive understanding of event production and strengthened my appreciation for the essential roles of collaboration, management, marketing, and creative problem-solving.
My core philosophy is centered on the belief that clear, concise, and transparent communication—paired with the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances—is essential to professional success. My background in developing effective marketing strategies, securing vital funding and sponsorships, and providing hands-on leadership has equipped me to consistently meet and exceed organizational goals while maintaining the highest professional standards.
Stepping into the role of Alumni & Annual Fund Director at LSSU, I look forward to applying this blend of relationship-building, strategic communication, and high-level logistical leadership to strengthen connections within the Laker community. My experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, securing sponsorships, and executing large-scale initiatives has prepared me to cultivate meaningful alumni engagement and support the continued growth of the Annual Fund. I am excited to champion LSSU’s mission by fostering lasting relationships, expanding opportunities for alumni involvement, and ensuring that every Laker feels valued, connected, and empowered to contribute to the university’s future.
With gratitude & enthusiasm,
Emily Lively
Alumni & Annual Fund Director
[email protected]
906-635-2488