Chyanna Black

Chyanna Black, Executive Director of the Panhandle State Foundation, has been named a 2024 recipient of the NextGen Under 30 award in the category of Adult and Higher Education. The NextGen Under 30 program honors young leaders who are pushing the limits in their fields through innovation, creativity, and inspiration. Winners are chosen for their active involvement and contributions to their communities, with a panel of respected business and civic leaders serving as judges.

Since joining OPSU in 2019, Chyanna has worked for the betterment of the University in both of her positions. First serving as the Director of Alumni Relations and then moving into her current role as Executive Director of the Panhandle State Foundation, Chyanna has found a passion for helping students and making an impact on alumni and community partnerships. “When my current position came open at the Foundation, I knew it was a chance to take my passion for alumni and current students and make a larger impact. This journey has shown me what I am capable of and taught me what it means to stay true to your heart.”

University President, Dr. Julie Dinger stated, “On behalf of the university community, I extend our congratulations to Ms. Black for this prestigious and well-deserved recognition. Her commitment to excellence has not only impacted our university but our broader community. We’re proud of her and look forward to her continued positive influence in the years to come.”

The Panhandle State Foundation operates under the governance of a dedicated board of directors comprised of individuals committed to supporting the university’s mission and ensuring the Foundation’s financial stewardship and support of OPSU. She said, “I have earned the trust of my board by working hard, being able to provide resources and research for the changes we needed to make, and staying transparent and open with everyone. There must be a high level of trust and transparency between our office and the board, and I believe that has been the key to overcoming my challenges or any challenges.”

“Without a doubt, Chy has exceeded all expectations since becoming Executive Director for the Panhandle State Foundation,” stated Panhandle State Foundation Board President Travis Wolf. “She took over at a time of great change and has shown an amazing ability to adapt and deliver. Her commitment to improving the Foundation is obvious in everything she does.  We are thrilled she has been recognized as a NextGen Under 30 award winner.”

The Foundation office has seen record improvement in mainstreaming processes and increased student assistance regarding scholarships. Chyanna credited Stephanie LeGrange, Foundation Administrative Assistant, for working alongside her. “As we look forward, we are excited to start capital campaigns, give resources to our campus leaders to fundraise for their specific areas and dive into the grant’s world. All these areas will continue to grow and set us up for long-term success.”

Dr. Ryan Blanton, Vice President of Advancement at OPSU, expressed, “We are proud of Chyanna and all she has accomplished. Her leadership in the Panhandle State Foundation has contributed to our university’s and students’ success.”