PRESS RELEASES

Bryant Group Places Assistant Vice President for Advancement, Norman Campus at The University of Oklahoma Foundation

October 11, 2025 – Dallas-based executive search and leadership consulting firm Bryant Group conducted a nationwide search led by the firm’s Vice President, Search Sarah Hempen, resulting in Kendall Mayer of Moore, OK securing the role of Assistant Vice President for Advancement, Norman Campus at The University of Oklahoma Foundation.

In this role, Mr. Mayer will provide strategic leadership in support of the University’s $2 billion Lead On campaign, partnering with academic deans, faculty and institutional leaders to drive philanthropic investment across 22 colleges and schools, advancing priorities that shape OU’s future.

“After a national search, it was clear to me that we had the right candidate already in Norman,” said Jay Kahn, Sr. Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Campaigns at University of Oklahoma Foundation. “Not only is Kendall a tremendous fundraiser, but he has demonstrated an innate ability to lead and get the most out of his teams. He works incredibly hard and I was impressed with his high emotional intelligence. I have no doubt that he will help us finish the Lead On Campaign strong and lift the Norman team to new heights.”

Over more than a decade at the University of Oklahoma, Mayer has held leadership roles within both the Foundation and Athletics Department. He directed strategies that delivered four years of record-setting results and secured several of the largest gifts in OU Athletics history. Known for a collaborative and data-informed approach, he has launched innovative giving programs, revitalized planned giving efforts and cultivated corporate partnerships that strengthened long-term institutional priorities.

“As a first-generation college graduate and proud OU alumnus, I’ve experienced firsthand how education can change the trajectory of one’s life,” said Mr. Mayer. “I believe Oklahoma’s best days are ahead, with the University of Oklahoma serving as a catalyst—transforming lives on an individual level and strengthening our state as a whole. Education is the one investment that multiplies in value every time it is shared, and that conviction makes this role especially meaningful. I am deeply honored to serve in this capacity and grateful to Jay Kahn, Amy Noah and Guy Patton for entrusting me with this opportunity.”

About the University of Oklahoma
OU’s recent move to the Southeastern Conference, combined with its Carnegie “Very High Research Activity” classification and 45 national championships, creates a unique platform for advancement success. The University’s 285,000-strong alumni network spans all 50 states and 21 countries, providing an unparalleled foundation for philanthropic growth. Located in Norman—just 20 miles from dynamic Oklahoma City—the position offers the charm of a vibrant college town with access to a thriving metropolitan area that provides world-class cultural amenities, professional opportunities and an exceptional quality of life.

Advancing Great Leadership
Bryant Group, based in Dallas, Texas, and with associates located across the United States, specializes in executive search and leadership coaching for higher education, healthcare and nonprofits with an emphasis on advancement leaders and other executives. In 1988, Bryant Group founder, Chris Bryant, started one of the country’s first search firms specializing in philanthropy recruitment. Now under the leadership of CEO Sally Bryant, the woman-owned firm has a long history of recruiting, developing and coaching great leaders. Bryant Group has impacted more than 10,000 leaders and served nearly 300 organizations across the US and Canada.