Correan Barker is a dynamic advancement leader with a career spanning a decade in higher education. Throughout his distinguished career, Correan has consistently demonstrated a passion for harnessing philanthropy to drive equitable access to education, the visual and performing arts, and social services.

As the Director of Strategic Engagement at The Evergreen State College, Correan sets the vision and strategies to fortify relationships with constituents. He spearheads high-profile, college-wide initiatives that integrate events and communications for Advancement, the Foundation and the Office of the President and Executive Vice President. Under his leadership, Correan oversees an Engagement Team responsible for delivering impactful alumni programs, annual giving, stewardship, philanthropic communications, and special events. Most recently, Correan successfully led the public launch of Evergreen’s inaugural comprehensive campaign, Forever Green, which concludes June 30, 2024. Currently, he is leading the final campaign community phase and preparations for closing engagement and celebrations through 2025.

A firm believer in centering humanity, authenticity, and creativity at the heart of an organization, Correan leverages systems thinking and data-driven processes that evaluate and enhance collaboration and organizational effectiveness. As a leader, speaker, and advocate, Correan aspires to leave an indelible mark on the advancement profession, inspiring positive change and shaping a future where access to education and cultural enrichment are truly universal.

Correan holds a Master of Public Administration from The Evergreen State College, a Bachelor of Music Performance from the University of Houston, and lives by the motto, “Success is inevitable!”

Dusti Cermak serves as the Executive Director of Events at the University of Iowa Center for Advancement where she has been for 25+ years, executing memorable events of every shape and size. In her role, Cermak leads a team of six dedicated professionals who produce engaging events for alumni, donors, fans, and friends across the country and world.

Cermak has a demonstrated history of working in the fundraising industry with diverse experience in event planning, stewardship, board governance, and nonprofit organizations. A strong operations professional, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications from the University of Northern Iowa and is an active member of her community.