Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Michele Rasmussen is an experienced development and fundraising professional currently serving as the Director of Development for the Heart and Vascular department at Emory University's Advancement and Alumni Engagement division. With a strong background in the nonprofit and healthcare sectors, she specializes in cultivating strategic donor relationships, leading successful fundraising campaigns, and driving impactful philanthropic initiatives.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Development for Heart and Vascular at Emory University, Michele is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the department's fundraising efforts. In this role, she works closely with clinical and administrative leadership to identify and secure major gifts, develop targeted fundraising strategies, and engage with a diverse portfolio of individual and institutional donors. Under her leadership, the Heart and Vascular department has consistently exceeded its annual fundraising goals, securing critical funding for innovative research, state-of-the-art patient care facilities, and educational programs.
Career Progression
Prior to her current position, Michele held various development and fundraising roles within the healthcare and nonprofit sectors. As a Philanthropy Partner at Northeast Georgia Health System, she played a pivotal role in expanding the organization's donor base and securing crucial support for capital campaigns and community-based initiatives. Earlier in her career, she served as a Development Manager and Development Officer at Atlanta Mission, where she spearheaded successful fundraising efforts to support the organization's homeless outreach and rehabilitation programs. Additionally, Michele has held leadership positions at The Salvation Army and the Boy Scouts of America, where she demonstrated her ability to drive strategic growth and foster meaningful donor relationships.
Academic Background
Michele holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Communication from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, where she developed a strong foundation in interpersonal communication, public relations, and stakeholder engagement.
Areas of Expertise
- Philanthropic strategy and campaign development
- Major gift cultivation and solicitation
- Donor relationship management
- Healthcare and nonprofit fundraising
- Volunteer engagement and leadership
- Grant writing and proposal development
- Event planning and execution
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Michele has made significant contributions to the organizations she has served. At Emory University, she has spearheaded several successful fundraising initiatives, including a $15 million campaign to establish a new cardiovascular research center and a $20 million initiative to expand the hospital's advanced heart failure and transplant program. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening the university's relationships with key corporate and foundation partners, securing vital funding for cutting-edge medical research and innovative patient care programs.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, strategic mindset, and proven track record of success, Michele Rasmussen is a respected leader in the development and fundraising field. Driven by a passion for making a meaningful impact, she continues to drive sustainable growth and champion the philanthropic efforts that support Emory University's mission of excellence in healthcare, research, and education.
