May 12, 2025
Hannah Fry, Associate Director of Major Gifts, grew up in rural northwestern Indiana on a farm not far from Purdue University. “Controversially, I went to Indiana University, where I studied Nonprofit Management.” Before joining the UChicago team, she worked in major gifts fundraising at Johns Hopkins University and Arizona State University. We interviewed Hannah about her interests and experiences.
People can come to me for…
resources and guidance regarding philanthropic giving to the University or the receiving of philanthropic gifts.
What do you enjoy about being a part of the PSD community?
I love the proximity to cutting-edge scientific discovery and being able to play a small role in advancing groundbreaking research that positively impacts the world. I also LOVE working with Sean and Katie every day!
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I love the outdoors! I spend most of my free time outside hiking, running, biking, camping, backpacking, rock climbing, and kayaking. I also love to travel. My partner and I went to Argentina and Ireland last year.
Who inspires you?
My dad! My dad is a farmer by trade, but every day he proves just how important it is to wear many hats in both a personal and professional setting. Some days, he wears a veterinarian’s hat, a mechanic’s hat, an engineer’s hat, a chemist’s hat, a therapist’s hat, a comedian’s hat, and many more, all in the span of a few hours.
What is the most interesting thing that you are working on right now?
I have been working on the Gregory L. Hillhouse Trailblazer Fellowship over the past year. From conception to closing the seed gift to launching the fund, I have really enjoyed learning about Greg (a fellow Indiana Hoosier) and his impact on the field of Chemistry and at the University of Chicago.
What does diversity and inclusion mean to you?
To me, diversity and inclusion means I get to be surrounded by people who help me learn and grow into a better human!
What three words best describe you?
Enthusiastic, Hardworking, Adventurous
Do you have pets, and if so, what are their names?
My partner and I have two cats: Remy and Rory.
What is your favorite restaurant in Chicago?
Wakamono in Lakeview! Amazing sushi and they make a MEAN ginger martini.