Dervla McDonnell Director, Development for Student Affairs she, her, hers
Dervla McDonnell (she/her) is the Director of Development for Student Affairs at UCLA. She oversees fundraising initiatives on behalf of the entire division and builds a community of support focused on the UCLA student experience.
Originally from Baltimore, MD, Dervla received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Art with a certificate in Japanese Studies from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA. She went on to receive her master's degree, also from Carnegie Mellon University, in Arts Management. Dervla has more than 10 years of experience in philanthropy focused on elevating marginalized communities through education, social justice, creativity, and trauma-informed care. As a first-generation American, Dervla believes that all Bruins deserve the opportunity to explore their passions and thrive, free from oppressive barriers.
A life-long learner, Dervla is currently pursuing an online certificate in Disability Inclusion and Accessible Design from the University of Michigan School of Social Work. Outside of work, Dervla enjoys spending time outdoors, visiting museums and galleries, supporting independent cinema, and reading.