Regina Rezex is a mission-driven advancement and external relations leader with a proven track record of building strategic partnerships, leading high-performing teams, and driving initiatives that advance institutional growth and impact. As Assistant Dean of Development & External Relations at the USC Iovine and Young Academy (IYA), she oversees fundraising, external relations, communications, career services, and signature events, working across departments to align strategy, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and support the Academy's mission of empowering the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and creative leaders.
Known for her collaborative leadership style, Rezex excels at bringing diverse teams together to achieve shared goals, navigate organizational change, and implement programs that create meaningful and lasting impact. She brings deep experience in strategic planning, operations, board engagement, relationship management, and community building. Her ability to connect people, ideas, and resources has helped strengthen institutional partnerships, enhance organizational effectiveness, and expand opportunities for students, alumni, parents, industry leaders, and donors.
A passionate advocate for the transformative power of education and philanthropy, Rezex is committed to fostering meaningful connections between individuals, organizations, and institutional priorities. Her expertise spans major and principal gifts, donor stewardship, partnership development, organizational leadership, and cross-functional team management.
Prior to joining the USC Iovine and Young Academy, Rezex held leadership roles at the Keck School of Medicine of USC's Institute of Urology, where she led fundraising initiatives and supported business development and strategic partnerships.
Rezex holds a Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management (MNLM) and a Graduate Certificate in Social Innovation from the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy. She also earned a Master of Healthcare Management (MSHCM) and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a minor in Business from California State University, Los Angeles. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Change and Leadership at the USC Rossier School of Education, with an anticipated graduation in 2030.