Biography
Aaron O’Data serves as the chief of staff for Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement at the University of Pittsburgh. In this key role, he directly supports the division and its leadership, contributing to the advancement of the University’s mission.
Since joining the PAE leadership team in 2022, Aaron has played a leading role in preparing for Pitt’s next comprehensive campaign. He is responsible for aiding in strategic planning, operational oversight, and high-level administrative support for the Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement division. He supports the day-to-day operations of the division by optimizing processes and fostering a productive, collaborative, and safe work environment. His role involves acting as a primary liaison between the PAE leadership and various internal and external stakeholders, coordinating projects, preparing communications, and facilitating decision-making.
Prior to his current position, Aaron held roles such as Associate Director, Principal Gift and Leadership Strategies, and Strategic Projects Manager within the Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement division. In these roles, he served as PAE’s primary point of contact with Pitt’s leadership offices and supported their engagement with our community of alumni, friends, and donors. In addition to his work at Pitt, Aaron has extensive experience in the museum and historical field, holding roles such as museum trustee, exhibits technician, and walking tour guide in the City of Pittsburgh. As a tour guide, he was highly regarded for connecting locals and visitors to Pittsburgh through his storytelling and humor.
Aaron earned a master’s degree in public history from Duquesne University, where he was invited to join the Phi Kappa Phi honor society. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in philosophy from Geneva College, graduating magna cum laude. Aaron is a native of Southwestern PA and lives in Penn Hills with his partner, Carrie, and their exceptionally large cat, Theodore.