Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy appoints Jill Assir as new director of development

The appointment fills a key position to advance the mission of Rice’s Baker Institute, recognized as the world’s No. 1 university-based think tank 

HOUSTON, TX — Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy is pleased to announce that Jill Assir has been appointed as director of development. Assir will lead resource generation efforts for the Baker Institute, which has an annual operating budget of over $13 million, to support its mission to provide expert perspective and data-driven analysis on critical issues facing the U.S., U.S., Texas, and the world.

Assir most recently served as director of development for the Houston Community College Foundation, where she secured major gifts for a range of programs in collaboration with the institute’s deans and leadership. Prior to that, she worked as a fundraiser for Amigos de las Américas, a Houston-based organization dedicated to youth leadership and international exchange, and for the YMCA of Greater Houston.

“Jill brings over 20 years of experience in development as well as a clear commitment to community and educational initiatives,” said Ambassador David Satterfield, director of the Baker Institute. “In today’s political landscape, the demand for nonpartisan, fact-based, and trusted analysis is stronger than ever. Jill is well equipped to champion our mission and lead our ambitious fundraising efforts. We are thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

Assir will work alongside the directors of the institute’s key research divisions, including the Center for Energy Studies, the Center for the U.S. and Mexico, the Center for Health and Biosciences, the Edward P. Djerejian Center for the Middle East, and the Center for Public Finance, as she leads fundraising efforts across the institute 

In addition to supporting the institute’s centers and programs, Assir will also oversee the Baker Roundtable, the Baker Institute’s renowned membership program. Through the Baker Roundtable, hundreds of civic-minded individuals provide financial support for the institute while receiving exclusive access to events and lectures hosted weekly at Baker Hall. 

A native Houstonian, Assir holds a bachelor’s degree in international studies and Spanish from Austin College and a master’s in business administration from Rice University’s Jones Graduate School of Business. She is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).

“I have long admired the Baker Institute’s mission to provide innovative research and practical solutions to some of the most pressing challenges we face today,” Assir said. “It is an honor to join an organization that is at the forefront of shaping public policy and fostering meaningful dialogue. I am incredibly excited to return to my alma mater and eager to contribute to its continued success.”

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