Paul J. Clifford is the 13th chief executive to lead the Indiana University Alumni Association. He leads IU’s global alumni engagement and giving strategy, building lifelong connections across generations, campuses, and geographies through digital-first, people-centered programs.
This leadership role drives a culture of generosity, overseeing outreach, and creating experiences that deepen alumni pride, connection, and philanthropy. Paul provides executive leadership and guides strategy, governance, and management to advance Indiana University.
Prior to joining the IUAA, he served as the CEO of the Penn State Alumni Association and associate vice president for alumni relations from 2016 to 2024. He managed a $13.5 million operating budget and led a team of 55 staff members, 280 affiliate groups, and 3,000 volunteers.
Before Penn State, Paul held a key leadership role at the University of Oregon, serving as the associate vice president of advancement and executive director of the University of Oregon Alumni Association. There, he oversaw engagement for 190,000 alumni and led an innovative team integrating alumni relations and fundraising.
Paul’s career also includes leadership positions at East Carolina University, the University of Connecticut, SUNY New Paltz, and James Madison University. He has been an active contributor to the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), serving on various committees and as a faculty member.
He earned his bachelor’s degree from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania and a master’s in higher education from Penn State.