Tierra Copeland

Tierra Copeland is an accomplished events professional serving as Director of University Events at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta, Georgia. With more than eleven years of experience in the events industry, particularly within higher education, she specializes in creating and executing engaging, mission-driven events that bring together students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and external partners. In her current role, she oversees university and third-party events, manages event operations and budgets, coordinates vendors and stakeholders, and supervises event staff and student workers.

Before joining Oglethorpe University, Tierra served as Events and Student Support Manager at Emory University School of Law, where she planned and managed orientations, visiting days, recognition ceremonies, meetings, and special events. Her earlier experience includes serving as Events Manager at the International Living Future Institute, Meetings Manager at the American Cancer Society, and progressing through several event and professional development roles at BOMA Georgia. Across these positions, she developed expertise in event logistics, contract negotiation, budgeting, speaker coordination, registration, sponsorships, professional development programs, and post-event analysis.

Tierra holds a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism from Hampton University, with a minor in Marketing, and has earned an Event Planning Certificate through Emory University Continuing Education. Her professional accomplishments include receiving the MPI Georgia Shining Star Award for outstanding volunteer service. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Tierra demonstrates a strong commitment to creating meaningful experiences and strengthening communities through events. Her work reflects her belief that events are about more than logistics—they are opportunities to celebrate people, create connections, honor milestones, and make a lasting difference.