Norah McCormick Appointed ARHU Chief Development Officer

McCormick steps in as the college launches a new strategic plan and related fundraising goals.

Norah McCormick M.P.M. ’21 has been appointed to serve as chief development officer for the College of Arts and Humanities. With 15 years of professional fundraising experience, including in several roles within the ARHU development office since 2017, McCormick is poised to advance the college as it rolls out its new strategic plan this fall and pursues ambitious fundraising goals.

“Norah has a proven track record as an effective and respected development professional; deep knowledge of and appreciation for the college’s 11 departments, 3 schools, 19 centers and our Arts for All campuswide initiative; and a warmth, authenticity and positive spirit appreciated by all those who work with her,” ARHU Dean Stephanie Shonekan said. “I’m thrilled to have her in this important role.” 

McCormick joined ARHU initially as a major gifts officer and was subsequently promoted to assistant director of development and then director of development. Since December 2024, McCormick has served as the interim chief development officer for ARHU Development. During that period, she led the ARHU development team to successfully raise $10.8 million in FY25, exceeding the college's $8.7 million goal. Vice President for University Relations (UR) Jim Harris recognized McCormick with a Terrapin Pride Award at the UR 2025 annual summit in August. The award recognizes a university relations professional who “shines with authenticity and openness, and who actively champions their colleagues' growth and well-being.” 

Before joining the University of Maryland's Division of University Relations in 2016, McCormick spent six years fundraising for performing arts and cultural nonprofit organizations, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Shakespeare Theatre Company. A native Marylander, she is deeply familiar with the region and the local arts landscape. She is also a proud Terp, having graduated with a Master of Public Management in 2021. In her spare time, McCormick sings with a women's vocal ensemble called bēheld.

“We are so fortunate that Norah has stepped up to meet this exciting moment,” said Kelly McCarthy, the executive director of development, schools, colleges and units, UR. “I recognize her deep commitment to ARHU and its fundraising goals and know that her appointment as chief development officer is a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional work and continued impact.”