Rick McKelvey is a seasoned professional with over 50 years of experience in higher education advancement, nonprofit leadership, and strategic consulting. As the Owner and Principal of McKelvey Consulting since 2014, Rick has offered valuable insights into engagement, resource development, program audits, campaign feasibility, and executive coaching. His extensive career has seen him collaborate with nonprofit organizations, higher education institutions, and performing arts organizations, helping to foster sustainable growth, strong donor relations, and impactful fundraising strategies.

Rick’s career began at New Mexico State University, his alma mater, where he rose through various leadership roles over a decade, including Director of Alumni Relations, Director of Deferred Giving, and eventually Associate Vice President for Development. He later transitioned to Emory University, where his expertise in major gifts and planned giving helped him advance to the role of Associate Vice President for Development. Rick continued to build on his experience at Drew University, where he served as Vice President for Development and University Relations, and later at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra/Woodruff Arts Center, where he led transformative growth as Vice President for Development.

From 2000 to 2014, Rick served as Vice President for University Relations at Southwestern University, where his leadership was instrumental in the successful completion of a $150 million comprehensive fundraising campaign. His contributions in alumni relations, donor engagement, and strategic communications were crucial to the university’s financial sustainability and continued success.

In 2014, Rick founded McKelvey Consulting, where he leverages his decades of experience to provide strategic consulting services to clients nationwide. His personal experience in managing advancement teams, overseeing major gift prospects, cultivating long-term donor relationships, and closing seven- and eight-figure gifts makes him a trusted partner for organizations seeking to enhance their fundraising and engagement efforts. In certain cases, Rick is also open to considering interim Chief Advancement Officer roles.

Rick’s involvement in professional organizations is equally noteworthy. He has been a member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) for nearly five decades, contributing as a speaker and committee member. He also served as a founding member and past president of the National Committee on Planned Giving (now the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners), where his leadership helped shape the organization’s future.

In addition to his professional achievements, Rick has a strong commitment to community service. He has held numerous leadership roles with Rotary International, including District 5870 Chair for Group Study Exchange, GSE Team Leader, and Chair of Ambassadorial Scholarships. He has served as Board Chair for the United Way of Williamson County, Texas, and has also been a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Mexico. His dedication to volunteerism underscores his lifelong commitment to making a positive impact on the communities he serves.

Rick holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from New Mexico State University. He also completed the prestigious Institute for Educational Management at Harvard University, further solidifying his expertise in higher education leadership and nonprofit management. Rick brings a global perspective to his work, having been involved in international exchanges with Rotary International in India and Australia.

Throughout his career, Rick has demonstrated a strong commitment to ethical practices, fostering trust, and building lasting relationships with colleagues, donors, and institutions alike. His skills in strategic planning, leadership, grant writing, event planning, and philanthropy, combined with his extensive hands-on experience, make him an invaluable asset to any organization seeking growth and long-term success.

Now based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Rick continues to offer his consulting services while enjoying an active personal life. He and his wife, Deborah, share their home with their labradoodle, Sully, and often travel to visit their grown children and grandchildren. In his spare time, Rick enjoys hiking the Sandia Mountains, playing golf, and mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Character:
Rick McKelvey embodies integrity, dedication, and ethical practices in all professional relationships, earning the trust and respect of colleagues and clients alike. His commitment to fairness and responsibility is evident in his work, making a positive impact on his community and the organizations he serves.

Knowledge:
With over five decades of experience in advancement, nonprofit management, and fundraising, Rick possesses a deep understanding of industry best practices. His hands-on expertise allows him to offer innovative, practical solutions tailored to the unique needs of each organization he works with.

Strategic:
Rick consistently demonstrates a visionary approach, balancing creativity and practicality to develop long-term strategies for sustainable growth. His ability to anticipate future trends and challenges enables him to craft proactive, impactful solutions for organizations.

Communication:
Rick excels in articulating complex ideas clearly and effectively, making him a skilled communicator in both large audiences and one-on-one settings. His empathetic listening and ability to build strong, trusting relationships are key factors in his success with donors, teams, and community members.