How Rick Adleman helps donors make an impact, no matter the contribution
Rick Adleman has spent 24 years working at Colorado Mesa University, primarily with the CMU Foundation to help donors turn their generosity into life-changing opportunities for students. As a CMU graduate and western Colorado native, he knows firsthand how access to education can shape lives, and he’s passionate about making sure students in the region have every chance to reach their full potential.
For Adleman, fundraising is about relationships, trust and helping people share their assets in meaningful ways. That people-first approach is at the heart of the CMU Foundation’s philosophy — which Adleman refers to as human-scale giving, meaning everyone has the power to make a difference.
“You don’t have to be a billionaire to make a big impact,” said Adleman. “With smart planning, the average person can create an endowed scholarship to live forever.”
To him, the relationship between CMU and its donors is a lot like the lightsaber displayed neatly on his desk.
“CMU is the lightsaber. The donors are like Luke Skywalker. They’re the ones providing opportunities for our community. We’re their tool, and my job is to help them achieve their goals,” he explained.
This is a reality he witnesses every day. At donor events, in meetings and through countless emails and calls, he sees the tangible impact of giving. Through the donors’ efforts, with his help, students succeed, donors are fulfilled and the community is strengthened.
The phrase “sharing kindness,” is one Adleman uses frequently when describing what donors do at CMU. He first heard it from donor Joyce Owens and he’s carried it with him since.
“It’s a shared relationship rather than a giving and receiving transactional relationship. It’s about leaving a legacy, helping students and making the world a little better,” said Adleman.
Even after more than two decades, Adleman’s commitment hasn’t disappeared. He continues to expand his knowledge with certifications, courses and seminars to stay current. Adleman is one of the few fundraisers in the Grand Valley with some of the top certifications in the field, holding a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) certification and a graduate certificate in Charitable Financial Planning from Texas Tech University.
“My motivation wasn’t to have letters behind my name,” he said. “It was a way to make sure I’m always doing the best for the university and for the donors.”
Looking ahead, he sees limitless possibilities for both students and donors.
“Our endowment has grown tremendously, and the generosity of so many people is making a difference every day,” Adleman said. “It’s rewarding to know we’re helping people share their kindness and shape the lives of students.”
Want to make an impact? Connect with Rick at [email protected] or 970.248.1871 to learn more.