Putting Heart into Philanthropy: How Relationships Guide Emily Drygas’ Work as Senior Director of Principal Gifts
Emily Drygas learned her most important lesson in a one-room school and in the small community that she was raised in-- the importance of relationships. It’s this lesson that guides her work as the Senior Director of Principal Gifts for the University of Alaska system.
“I am passionate about building authentic relationships with the university’s dedicated donors, alumni and friends,” said Drygas, who previously served as director of the UAF Office of Development and Alumni Relations. “I am inspired by the transformational impact of philanthropy. Our donors’ generosity to the University of Alaska is an investment in our state’s future.”
Throughout her career, Drygas has worked closely with individual and corporate donors to meet their goals via major, annual and planned gifts. She also has expertise in strategy development, membership and event management.
Prior to joining the UA Foundation team on April 29, Drygas spent 16 years in leadership
roles at UAF. Prior to Drygas’s tenure at the university, she worked in the travel
industry and was involved in destination marketing. She is a current member of Rotary
Club of Fairbanks, the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the Council for
Advancement and Support of Education.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to witness the dreams that are achieved
thanks to our donors’ philanthropic investments and through ties with our dedicated
alumni and friends during my 16-year tenure at UAF,” Drygas said. “I am grateful for
my time here and excited that my new role only furthers the relationships that we
have built.”
Drygas is a third-generation Alaskan, who was born in Fairbanks. She grew up in Paxson, a community of 25 people in Interior Alaska. Drygas is a two-time graduate of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Drygas holds an undergraduate degree in Japanese studies and travel Industries management and a masters in professional communication. During her studies, she spent a year abroad in Nagoya, Japan and later served as an international relations liaison for the consulate of Japan in Obihiro City, Hokkaido.
Drygas, and her husband, Erik, a former UA Regent, have two daughters, Annika and
Ava. The family enjoys spending time together traveling and exploring Alaska’s great
outdoors.