Julie Dussliere, MA in Slavic and East European Studies, Class of 1995

Where do you work and what is your current position?

Since the fall of 2024, I’ve served as president and CEO of the Purdue for Life Foundation, reporting to our Board of Managers chaired by Purdue’s president, Mung Chiang. In this role, I have the privilege of working with more than 300 talented people focused on all things alumni, including our alumni-facing organizations—the Purdue Alumni Association, President’s Council, and the John Purdue Club. Our team also oversees development, lifelong learning, and special events, both on campus and beyond. Working together, we’re committed to keeping our alumni and supporters connected and energized around the university’s mission and future.

Tell us how you got there.

I completed my undergraduate studies in Russian at Purdue, where I competed as a varsity student-athlete in swimming. The first 30 years of my career were spent exclusively in sport—coaching and sport administration early on followed by more than a decade in executive leadership within the Olympic & Paralympic Movements. I was privileged to work at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee for over 20 years supporting Team USA. Additionally, I served in many international roles including a term as President of the Americas Paralympic Committee in 2018-2019, becoming the first woman to lead the organization. Following the Paris 2024 Games I had the opportunity to return to Purdue.

How has your CSEEES MA helped you throughout your post-graduate life? 

My language and culture studies have enhanced my professional pursuits, most notably my leadership roles on international boards and committees and the running of major international sporting events. During my tenure with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, I oversaw our Paralympic international relations strategy and operations and led our delegation at the Games. Language, culture, and forging strong partnerships with our international colleagues were paramount to success in these endeavors.

What was your focus or research interest when you studied at Ohio State?

During my time at Ohio State, I focused my studies on USSR history and politics, more specifically, the environmental impact of Soviet policy.

If you are a traveler, what is one of your favorite trips you have taken?

I’ve been fortunate to visit many countries and particularly enjoyed immersing myself in the Tahitian culture during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The surfing competition took place over 9,000 miles from Paris at Teahupo’o, a coastal fishing village on the island of Tahiti. It is a gorgeous, yet remote location and the local community embraced us as family. My favorite part of each day was an early morning paddle [SUP] that provided the opportunity for a new and adventurous interaction every day—surfers, sharks, sea turtles, whales and local fishermen. 

What are your future plans?

Advancing Purdue! I treasure the connections I’m making within our Boilermaker family—and I’m proud of the work our team does to inspire our alumni, friends, and fans to stay connected, get involved, and give back.