Amy Heard , Ph.D. Senior Director - Development

Amy Heard serves as the Senior Director of Development for the College of Arts & Sciences at Texas Tech University’s Office of Advancement, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in strategic fundraising, donor engagement, and leadership development. She has led transformational initiatives that deepened donor relationships and elevated philanthropic support, including record-setting annual giving campaigns with the Red Raider Club and major gifts that expanded donor impact across the Athletics Department.

Her relationship-driven approach has fostered a culture of stewardship and sustained giving, generating significant annual support for student-athlete scholarships, enhanced experiences, and improved facilities.

Amy also directed the nationally recognized J.T. & Margaret Talkington Leadership Academy, which emphasizes holistic development for student-athletes. The program is built around four pillars, Discover, Prepare, Implement, and Empower, each designed to support personal growth, career readiness, leadership development, and community engagement. These pillars equip student-athletes with lifelong skills that extend beyond their time on campus.  

Her academic research reflects her commitment to leadership in higher education. Her dissertation, “Exploring the Self-Described Career Pathways, Challenges and Recommendations of NCAA Women Athletics Directors,” examines the experiences and advancement of women in collegiate athletics leadership.

A proud three-time graduate of Texas Tech, Amy holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, a Master of Science in Sport Management, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education Research. She is passionate about building meaningful relationships that connect donors to the mission and impact of the university.

Education

Texas Tech University
Doctor of Philosophy, Higher Education Research - 2021
Master of Science, Sports Administration - 2001
Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing - 2000