February 2007

On Campus

Vice President Named Outstanding Professional Fundraiser

Gary Klein said he was “really honored” when he was nominated for the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Outstanding Professional Fundraiser award. Winning, however, was something else entirely.

“I was extremely humbled when they called and said I was receiving the award,” said Klein, Viterbo’s vice president for institutional advancement, who was presented with the honor at an awards luncheon in November. “It’s extremely gratifying to be honored for something you love to do and to be honored by your peers.”

He credits relationship building with benefactors and the Viterbo community for the success the university has enjoyed in its fundraising initiatives.

“Benefactors know we care,” said Klein. “Viterbo employees have such a passion for the mission of our organization. Most people decided years ago to whom they will make a gift, and have done so because of the experiences they have had. I’m just a conduit for those gifts.”

Klein’s record at Viterbo speaks for itself. Beginning with his arrival in January 2002, giving has increased each year—from $1.5 million that year to $2.3 million in 2003, $2.4 million in 2004, $4.5 million in 2005, and $6.5 million last year.

He considers the Amie L. Mathy Center for Recreation and Education, a $7.5 million project, his favorite, saying it “was the most fun and the biggest privilege” of his career.

“Gary is an outstanding person and fundraiser, and this recognition is well deserved,” said Pat Kerrigan, vice president for communications and marketing. “Everyone at Viterbo should be very proud of this special achievement and the good work that Gary does on behalf of the university.”