WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY
Foundation
Advancing Western’s mission through the power of philanthropy.
The Western Colorado University Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the mission and goals of Western Colorado University. Established in 1975, the Foundation serves as the primary channel for private support, fostering philanthropic stewardship in partnership with the university.
Our Mission
The Foundation empowers student excellence for lifelong success by supporting Western Colorado University through fundraising, donor engagement, and resource management.
Built on Generosity
Incorporated on August 22, 1975, the Foundation was initiated with a generous bequest from former Colorado Governor Dan Thornton and his wife, Jessie. Their contribution laid the groundwork for one of the nation’s finest undergraduate biology programs. L. Richard “Dick” Bratton (’54), a Gunnison attorney, was instrumental in founding the Foundation.
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Shelley Thompson
Vice President of Advancement & Executive Director of the Western Colorado University Foundation
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Ella Fahrlander
Assistant Vice President, Development
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Joy Kean
Director of Advancement Services
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Mackenzie Bode
Director of Development
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Pam Johnston
Director of Finance, Foundation
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Reilly Selinger
Annual Giving Coordinator
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Wyatt Harper
Accounting Coordinator
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Stephen Sherbahn
Donor Relations Coordinator
Foundation
Contact Information
Contact Location
Aspinall-Wilson Center
909 E. Escalante Dr.
Gunnison, CO 81230