Hartsook Companies: Fundraising Counsel

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Lonelle R. Rathje, MA
Senior Vice President

Motivated, forward thinking, organized, fearless - all traits used to describe Lonelle Rathje. These attributes have been instrumental in framing Lonelle's professional development, as well as influencing organizational teamwork to launch dreams into reality.

"It's an inspiration to partner with the impressive caliber, worldwide talent and true professionalism of our team at Hartsook Companies, Inc.," Lonelle said. "In advancing an organization, I believe collaboration is paramount in creating successful, highly effective cultures. From day one, I've experienced first-hand how Hartsook embodies this practice. Not only do consultants work closely to innovate, but we bring that intellectual capital to diverse clients, working with them to strengthen the ideals, spirits and outcomes of their organizations. There's a reason Hartsook clients have secured billions of dollars through the years - innovative teamwork charts the path."

As Senior Vice President for Hartsook Companies, Inc., Lonelle is based in Kansas City where she serves clients nationwide with capital campaign organization and execution, major gift strategies, annual fund development and strategic planning. Through a team-based approach to organizational leadership, Rathje's proven success in development, management and motivation, visioning and strategic thinking, along with her zeal for fundraising and commitment to life-long learning, make her a consultant in high demand. A strong background in international work, marketing and communications enhances her ability to creatively interact with diverse individuals and organizations through personal contact, case statements, direct mail appeals, campaign newsletters, grant applications and more.

As Director of Development and Marketing at The University of Arizona, College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, Rathje's team-based leadership provided the framework for the College's reinvention of its friend-raising and fund-raising efforts. As a member of the Dean's Council, Rathje was involved in multiple facets of the college, including enhancing organizational structure, establishing vision, reconnecting with constituencies and educating stakeholders about private support. Along with redefining the college's major- and planned-gift programs, she spearheaded strategic efforts to reinvigorate constituent awareness of and investment in the college. Subsequently, the team increased total giving and new donors, soon securing the largest gift in college history that culminated in the dedication of its $13 million renovation and expansion.

Prior to her work at The U of A, Rathje served as Director of Development at Northwest Missouri State University. During its first campaign, she worked with University leaders and volunteers to enhance annual-, major- and planned-giving efforts, as well as redefine communication strategies, to achieve $43.5 million ahead of schedule - more than double the goal. She played a leading team role in securing an eight-figure commitment, which at the time was the second-largest for a public, Missouri university.

Originally from York, Neb., Lonelle has associate degrees in German and business, a bachelor's degree in journalism and a master's in English from Northwest Missouri State University. Currently, she is a candidate for a Doctor of Education, in educational leadership and policy analysis, at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is an accomplished writer, passionate volunteer and remains dedicated to continually learning.