Ruotolo Associates (RA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Steve Michalek to the position of Chief Operating Officer overseeing RA’s Church, Nonprofit, and Search Divisions, and managing all areas of firm operations, effective September 10, 2020. Steve will also work directly with George Ruotolo and the rest of our Executive Team to grow RA and expand our mission. Through this year of unprecedented challenges, the opportunity to step up presented itself and Steve Michalek took the lead.
“In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, Steve emerged as an astute and effective leader with the capacity and depth of understanding to steward our entire team and clients while representing the firm among our Collegium* partners. Steve has always been one of our top performers in the firm, trusted to get things done, and drive the growth of our business. Steve’s leadership of the Church Division has been by far the most impactful in our firm’s history. His steady hand and creativity have positioned the firm for expansive growth. Recognizing the value of Steve’s leadership, I believe he is uniquely able to fill this expanding role at RA.”
George C. Ruotolo, Jr., CFRE Chair & CEO
Having led the Church Division to record growth through service to the Roman Catholic, Orthodox Christian, Episcopal, Baptist, and other faith-based communities, Steve will bring that drive and record of accomplishment to all areas of RA’s operations. From fundraising campaigns and appeals, increased offertory, pre-campaign studies, and search opportunities, Steve has provided exemplary counsel to ensure our clients achieve their goals and position themselves for sustained support and advancement. In February of this year, RA marked the successful completion of a historic comprehensive campaign for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix aimed at strengthening evangelism and discipleship. Through RA’s signature approach to diocesan campaign design, led by Steve, the diocese raised over $110,000,000 and engaged countless faithful as intentional disciples.
“I had the pleasure of working with Steve for several years in the development and implementation of our Diocesan Campaign for Discipleship and Evangelization. His dedication and results-driven nature were a great benefit to our team. Steve truly became part of our mission and offered a professional, creative, and experienced perspective to decisions and execution that led to a successful engagement experience for pastors, staff, and parishioners. Congratulations to this humble, authentic, faith-filled man on his promotion within the Ruotolo Associates organization. Blessings on the road ahead.”
Fr. Frederick Adamson Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix
In total, Steve has raised hundreds of millions of dollars in philanthropic support for RA’s clients – much of it through major gifts. He has personally trained thousands of volunteers to lead and participate in steering, major gift, and hospitality committees as well as to cultivate and solicit prospects. Steve has a gift for identifying and nurturing talent, providing guidance for our consultants, our clients, and their constituents. As part of the Collegium leadership, Steve’s vision and execution have been highly regarded by the partner firms. Impressed with his acumen and ability to deliver, they are pleased to welcome Steve into their ranks. As Ruotolo Associates Inc. marks its 41st year providing specialized advancement counsel for nonprofits across the country, we are poised for a new era of growth. Under Steve’s leadership, we will build on the foundational elements of our service, enhance our offerings, and expand our impact.