Sara Whelan ’03, J.D.

Director of Development, Gift Planning

Sara Whelan ’03, J.D., Director of Development, Gift Planning

Sara Whelan joined Loyola Marymount University in 2022 as trust and estate administrator and now serves as the director of development, gift planning. In her role, she provides leadership for the university’s planned giving program, working with donors and advisors on charitable gift arrangements that support LMU’s mission. She also directs and manages the settlement of trusts and estates, as well as all in-kind gifts received by the university. Whelan also serves as a Staff Senator.

Having previously worked as an administrator, office manager, and paralegal in various law firms, Whelan brings a decade of experience working in the legal field. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in political science from LMU and her Juris Doctorate from the University of West Los Angeles. She currently serves as a member of the board of directors of the Friends of Ballona Wetlands and has been a Girl Scout leader for the past 10 years.

Whelan has also been a full-time mom, community leader, and fundraiser for schools and local nonprofit organizations. In her free time, she likes to hike with her husband and two children, explore vineyards and sample their fruits, travel, bake, try new restaurants, and spend time with her friends and family.