With over four decades of distinguished experience in university advancement, Elizabeth (Lil) O’Rourke is a seasoned professional who has consistently driven growth, competitiveness, and mission alignment in higher education. As President of the University of Rhode Island Foundation & Alumni Engagement, she led a dynamic team of 75, fostering deep connections with alumni, parents, corporations, foundations, and friends to enhance support for students and faculty in their scholarly pursuits.

Under O’Rourke’s leadership, the University of Rhode Island—a flagship land and sea grant institution—saw remarkable growth in its endowment earnings and returns. She successfully doubled the organization’s annual fundraising goals and spearheaded a comprehensive $300 million capital campaign that was completed ahead of schedule and exceeded its targets. Notably, she also facilitated the largest gift in URI’s history, securing over $60 million for scholarships.

Before her tenure at URIFAE, O’Rourke served as Senior Vice President for Principal Gifts and International Advancement at Syracuse University, where she also held the position of Secretary to the Board of Trustees. A vital member of Syracuse’s Division of Advancement and External Affairs, for over 30 years, she excelled in roles including Associate Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, Director of Alumni Relations, and Vice President for Development. Her efforts were instrumental in a successful $1 billion campaign that concluded in 2012, surpassing its goal ahead of time.

An active contributor to the advancement community, O’Rourke has served on the CASE Board of Trustees and the Annual Leadership Summit planning committee, and she was honored as a CASE Laureate for her outstanding service.

O’Rourke is also committed to education and social justice. As an alumna of The Madeira School in McLean, Virginia, she served on the Board and campaign committee. Currently, she is on the Board and Development Committee of Sophia Academy in Providence, Rhode Island, a middle school dedicated to providing a transformative education for girls from low-income families.

O’Rourke holds a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University College of Arts and Sciences and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University.