Monday, February 10, 2025 811

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DURANGO, Colo. — Melissa Mount, vice president for advancement and CEO of the Fort Lewis College Foundation, has been recognized with the 2025 CASE District VI Chief Executive Leadership Award for her work in fundraising and institutional advancement.  

 

CASE (Council for Advancement and Support of Education) presents the District Individual Achievement Awards to professionals who have made a lasting impact on their institutions and the advancement field.

 

“Melissa has demonstrated exemplary leadership and visionary thinking throughout her career, and especially during her tenure at Fort Lewis College,” said FLC Interim President Steve Schwartz in his support letter. “Her ability to create and execute a compelling vision, rallying others to achieve ambitious goals, has positioned FLC for long-term success.”

 

Schwartz said since joining FLC in 2021, Mount has transformed the college’s fundraising efforts, leading the FLC Foundation to record-breaking success. Under her leadership, the Foundation secured more than $20.6 million in commitments by the end of fiscal year 2024 and doubled its endowment to over $32 million, ensuring long-term support for students and the college’s mission.

 

Working with the FLC Foundation Board, Advancement staff, and campus partners, Mount has raised millions for student success programs, including FLC’s Tuition Promise. Beyond fundraising, Mount has played a pivotal role in advancing key initiatives at FLC, including securing multiple partners and gifts to help launch the Nursing Collaborative,  and helping develop the college’s strategic plan. She also serves on the search committee for FLC’s next president, ensuring broad community engagement in the process. 

 

Mount was nominated by Deputy Chief Fundraising & Engagement Officer Lauren Berutich, who described Mount as a driving force behind the college’s fundraising team. “Melissa has cultivated a positive and supportive work environment that attracts and retains top talent,” Berutich said in the nomination. “Her strategic vision and ability to build meaningful connections have elevated both her team and the institution.” 

 

"This recognition is truly a reflection of the incredible team at Fort Lewis College and the generous donors and volunteer leaders who believe in our mission,” Mount said. “Fundraising is about building meaningful relationships and creating opportunities for students, and I’m honored to play a role in that work. Seeing the impact of philanthropy on our students and campus fuels my passion every day.”