Julie Ricciardi is a seasoned advancement leader with more than 25 years of experience building philanthropic partnerships in education and nonprofit organizations. She currently serves as Vice President for Advancement at Ripon College, where she leads fundraising strategy, alumni engagement, and donor stewardship initiatives.
Julie began her career in the classroom as a third-grade teacher, where she developed a deep belief in the transformational power of literacy. She minored in children’s literature, participated in the Reading Recovery program, and served on the board of the Marshall County Reading Association. These early experiences shaped her understanding that mission-driven work begins with relationships whether with students or with donors.
Throughout her career in advancement, Julie has worked with institutions large and small, helping them strengthen donor relationships, grow annual giving, launch major gift initiatives, and cultivate board and volunteer engagement. Her approach is grounded in one core belief: fundraising is ultimately about people not transactions.
Known for her energy, strategic thinking, and practical tools, Julie brings both a high-level leadership lens and grassroots, roll-up-your-sleeves experience to her work. She is passionate about helping organizations simplify fundraising, build authentic connections, and center donors in meaningful ways.
Julie is also a musician and community chorus director, and she believes deeply in the power of storytelling to connect mission to generosity.
