People News: A semi-goodbye and impending hello

As some of you know, my colleague and business partner Mark Rountree has been intentionally easing away from full-time work with Ashley|Rountree and Associates over the last several years. Now, it’s bittersweet to share that Mark will move into his long-planned semi-retirement, effective February 1, 2022. He will continue to collaborate with our team, albeit in a more limited capacity as “Of Counsel.” In this role, Mark plans to offer consultation—up to four days each month through 2022—for a short list of our clients.  

On behalf of our staff, associates, and clients, I want to thank Mark for his service and partnership over the past 12 years. We met as fundraising colleagues at the University of Louisville 25 years ago, and he joined our company in 2010 as a consultant and part-owner. Mark will retain his part-ownership role even as he steps back, and as a result, our company name will remain the same to reflect his continued involvement. You will still be able to reach him at mrountree@ashleyrountree.com. 

Mark and I hope that, when it’s safer to gather, we can all meet for a celebration of his career and next chapter. We will be back in touch to announce that event. 

We have another piece of news that’s more sweet than bittersweet! For the past few months, we’ve been working to fill a newly created leadership position, Vice President of Fundraising Solutions. I’m happy with the progress we’ve made in finding the most capable and qualified candidate to play this key role on our team, and we hope to announce their hiring by mid-February.  

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, thoughts, or concerns. I hope you will join me and our team in our excitement for 2022. We’re ready to learn how we can best support you and your organization this year, so reach out any time! 

— Jeff