Katherine Ritchie

About Katherine Ritchie

Experienced and mission-driven fundraiser with a strong background in hospice, nonprofit and higher education philanthropy. Over twelve years of professional experience—focused on major and leadership giving, annual giving, stewardship, donor engagement, capital campaigns, marketing, grant writing, and event planning—paired with more than a decade in admissions across selective liberal arts colleges, a large public research university, and as an independent counselor. I thrive in relationship-based roles and am passionate about building connections that drive organizational success. Skilled in volunteer management, community engagement, and crafting compelling appeals across digital and traditional platforms, I enjoy collaborating across departments while also excelling independently.As a strong writer, editor, and communicator, I specialize in turning strategic goals into campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences. My work is grounded in a deep commitment to education and social impact.I am always open to connecting with others who share a passion for education, access, and community-based organizations. CliftonStrengths: Woo (Influencing), Achiever (Executing), Relator (Relationship Building), Strategic (Strategic Thinking) and Empathy (Relationship Building)

Experience

1. Development Officer

   University Hospitals

   Oct 2025 — Present · US

   Responsible for the engagement, cultivation and solicitation of potential donors to support the mission of University Hospitals, particularly for the UH Samaritan Medical Center. The main focus is fundraising efforts is securing gifts from individuals, corporations and foundations at the major gift level. Responsibilities include:* Develop and execute major gift fundraising strategies in alignment with the priorities of University Hospitals to maximize philanthropic results* Identify, engage, cultivate and solicit prospective donors to University Hospitals* Effectively lead and ensure alignment of key stakeholders, both internal and external, in support of initiatives, events, campaigns, and special projects* Appropriately steward assigned donors in alignment with the Office of Institutional Relations & Development (IR & D) stewardship policies & protocols* Meet or exceed annual qualification, visitation, solicitation, individual and team attainment goals and guidelines as defined in collaboration with IR & D and University Hospitals* Engage Administrative Leadership, Physician Staff and Volunteer Leaders in support of the mission and vision of University Hospitals, especially at the UH Samaritan Medical Center* Lead special projects as assigned and approved by IR & D and UH leadership

Education

• The College of Wooster

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Major: Communication Studies, Minor: Womens Studies