Metropolitan State University of 
Denver welcomed Shelley Thompson in February as the new associate vice president of University Advancement. Thompson has established a successful career raising charitable funds to build a more just and equitable community. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Denver Health and the Women’s Foundationfor Colorado are just a few of the local organizations that have benefited from her development expertise. Now Thompson is shifting her focus toward supporting scholars in their pursuit of success.
“We are thrilled that Shelley is bringing her remarkable talent and expertise to the MSU Denver team,” said Christine Marquez-Hudson, vice president of University Advancement and executive director of the MSU Denver Foundation. “She has deep experience in campaigns, a proven track record of excellent donor relations and major gifts and is a respected coach and mentor of development professionals. We are so excited about the team we are building in Advancement and what we’ll be able to do to support our students, faculty, staff members and University priorities.”
Thompson spoke with the Early Bird about her hopes and ambitions for University Advancement, and what makes MSU Denver a great investment for donors.
Early Bird: What is your proudest professional accomplishment?
Thompson: “The proudest moment of my career came at the Colorado Community College System Foundation when we launched the first systemwide campaign to dramatically increase scholarship support for students at all 13 colleges. I knew then that I wanted to work for those students again, and that is what brought me to MSU Denver. I admire the students who choose to study here, and I want to help make all things possible.”
Early Bird: What makes MSU Denver such a valuable investment?
Thompson: “Donors are always motivated by the same thing: They want to make some change in the world, and they cannot do it alone. They are motivated by big vision, strong leadership and confidence in our ability to get the job done over the long haul. MSU Denver is perfectly situated to attract record-setting amounts of support from both current and new donors, and I am excited to be here.”
Early Bird: What is the power of a dollar donated to MSU Denver?
Thompson: “An investment at MSU Denver goes further to strengthen our community because our students are from Colorado and for Colorado. Ninety-six percent of Roadrunners are from this state, and 78% will stay here. This is a huge differentiator for us, and it will help us attract transformational giving from existing and new donors. We are grateful for every single gift, and we are excited to continue partnering with anyone at MSU Denver who wants to partner with us in pursuit of our shared and lofty goals.”
Early Bird: Are there any upcoming changes you’re looking forward to within Advancement?
Thompson: “The Roadrunners Rising fundraising campaign will elevate philanthropic support at MSU Denver to historic heights, and the Advancement team is excited to continue our work together in support of the mission. Anyone who wishes to learn more can join us for an informational session April 6, April 12 or April 16. Information about time and location will be coming soon via the Early Bird and other sources.”
Early Bird: In addition to monetary donations, what are ways that employees can contribute to University Advancement and the Roadrunners Rising campaign?
Thompson: “Successful fundraising is completely dependent on the success of the organization as a whole. Donors invest in success, so every employee is already working in support of University Advancement. My advice to someone who wants to be even more supportive is to talk loud and proud with everyone in our community about your personal MSU Denver story.”