By Michele Lynn
An alumnus of two state universities, Jack Ahern is a strong proponent of public education. That passion, combined with a lifelong love of libraries, drew Ahern to the University Libraries as director of annual giving, a role he assumed in February.
While earning his undergraduate degree in political science and history at the University of Illinois, Ahern delighted in choosing which library to study in each day. He also worked closely with librarians to better understand data analysis and to research primary sources for his coursework.
Growing up in Wheaton, Illinois, Ahern spent many afternoons at the public library within walking distance of his home. “Libraries are so important to how we learn and think,” he says. “They have been really impactful to my personal growth.” He now lives in Durham and loves to borrow nonfiction audio books and fantasy novels from his community library.
Ahern moved to the Tar Heel State in 2016 to attend North Carolina State University for a master’s in public administration with a focus in nonprofit management. “In grad school, I realized that fundraising is the engine of the nonprofit. It’s how an organization can pursue its mission,” he says.
He understands that fundraising is especially critical for public universities to supplement limited state funds. “For state schools to be able to take the next step up, you need strong private philanthropy,” he notes.
Before joining the Libraries team, Ahern worked in development at the UNC General Alumni Association and the UNC School of Law. “I love working at UNC,” he says. “Even though I’m not an alumnus, I have a real soft spot for Carolina.”
A self-described “numbers geek,” Ahern is committed to using his background in data analysis and marketing to increase private support of the University Libraries. However, he always keeps in mind why he’s doing it. “Public service is important to me, as is knowing that I’m raising money for a good cause,” he says. “It’s hard not to be motivated when I see what our incredible staff and spaces do for Carolina’s students.”
