Behind every student-athlete's experience is a network of people who help make it possible. Coaches, alumni, families and donors all contribute to the opportunities available at Truman State University. Rick Reeve's work will focus on strengthening those connections and helping supporters understand where they can make a difference.

As Truman's new Associate Vice President for Advancement, Reeve has a university-wide leadership role that includes oversight of athletics fundraising. It marks the first time Truman has established a position of this kind with athletics responsibilities, creating a new connection between the Athletics Department and the university's advancement efforts.

For Bulldog supporters, that connection offers an opportunity to help shape the future of Truman Athletics through relationships built around student-athletes and the needs of their programs.

"Rick's extensive experience in fundraising, relationship-building and organizational leadership makes him a fantastic addition as we continue celebrating our history and building momentum for the future at Truman and within Bulldog Athletics," said Director of Athletics Signe Coombs. "This position strengthens our partnership with University Advancement and creates new opportunities to connect our supporters' generosity with a transformational student-athlete experience. We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to introducing him to Bulldog Nation, strengthening connections with our fanbase, and building on the upward trajectory of Truman Athletics."

Reeve brings more than two decades of nonprofit leadership, fundraising and community engagement experience. His career has included leading organizations, working with volunteer boards, developing donor relationships, and guiding campaigns that support both immediate needs and long-term goals.

At Masonic Homes of Kentucky, where he served as senior vice president for development and fraternal relations, Reeve launched a $1.5 million endowment fellowship and two capital project initiatives and led an annual giving campaign generating $800,000 annually. Earlier, as chief executive of the Texas Southwest Council of the Boy Scouts of America, he helped guide a $4.1 million capital campaign supporting youth, facilities and the organization's endowment.

Those experiences involved connecting an organization's mission with people willing to invest in its future. At Truman, the people and programs benefiting from that work will include Bulldog student-athletes. For Reeve, that work also carries personal significance.

"One of the biggest reasons I was drawn to Truman was the opportunity to move closer to family while also taking on a role where I could make a meaningful impact," Reeve said. "Having been a college athlete myself and a parent to a college athlete, I understand the dedication, hard work, and support it takes to succeed on and off the field. I'm excited to learn from the university's coaches, campus community members, students, and student-athletes, hear their stories, and better understand their goals and needs."

That interest in listening extends to his approach to fundraising.

"I believe building strong relationships starts with listening and learning what matters most to each donor, then connecting those interests and passions with meaningful opportunities to support our students and student-athletes and enhance their college experience," Reeve said. "My own experience as a student-athlete gave me a personal connection to that mission and strong appreciation for the impact that support can have."

His athletics responsibilities are part of a broader advancement portfolio. Reeve leads three directors of development serving Truman's academic schools and a prospect research analyst. He also serves as a liaison for athletics, Greek Life, Pickler Memorial Library and the Ruth W. Towne Museum, and ROTC.

That university-wide perspective places him in a position to connect athletics fundraising with Truman's broader relationships and priorities, while working with athletics leadership to understand the department's needs.

Reeve's connection to education and service extends beyond his professional background. He earned his bachelor's degree in education from Northwest Missouri State University and a master's degree in management from Friends University. An Eagle Scout from Creston, Iowa, he credits the mentors in his life with shaping his commitment to mentoring and giving back.
Outside work, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his children and granddaughter, restoring antique cars, scuba diving and volunteering.

For Truman alumni and friends, getting to know Reeve is also an opportunity to share their own connection to the Bulldogs: the teams they follow, the experiences they value and the opportunities they hope future student-athletes will have.

"I believe that the heart of Truman is found in the people who support it, both past and present," Reeve said. "I would love to hear from our alumni, parents, and supporters about their experiences, favorite memories, and hopes for the future of Truman State University. Your stories, ideas, and continued involvement help us celebrate our history while building opportunities for the next generation of students and student-athletes."

Reeve welcomes conversations with supporters interested in getting involved in a variety of ways.

"Whether you would like to reconnect, share your story, volunteer, or explore ways to support our mission, I welcome the opportunity to connect with you," he said. "Together, we can make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of our students and student-athletes."

To connect with Reeve, contact him at rreeve@truman.edu, 660-785-4028 (office) or 502-649-8873 (cell).

"I look forward to hearing from you!"