Bio
Richard Tollefson established The Phoenix Philanthropy Group in 2004 after a successful career in fundraising and advancement management. Under his leadership, Phoenix Philanthropy has grown into a nationally respected philanthropic consulting firm that has raised funds and empowered nonprofit organizations, foundations and donors in 39 countries worldwide. The firm’s 19-member team has helped 220 clients collectively raise more than $16 billion in philanthropic support.
Phoenix Philanthropy is also recognized for its thought leadership, with the team contributing more than 100 published articles that advance best practices in philanthropy, governance and social impact.
Prior to founding Phoenix Philanthropy, Richard served as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at his alma mater, Thunderbird School of Global Management. During his tenure, he managed two comprehensive fundraising campaigns, raising $120 million in 26 countries, including a $60 million commitment — the largest-ever naming gift to a business school at that time — and transformed Thunderbird’s alumni association into a global professional association.
Throughout his career, Richard has successfully guided many other acclaimed arts, culture and educational institutions, including the Master Chorale of Orange County, The Joffrey Ballet, the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, where he was part of a $600 million campaign leadership team.
Richard has also been a highly active volunteer, serving on the boards of Social Venture Partners International, Social Venture Partners Arizona, The Giving Institute and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District VII. He serves on the Advisory Council for the Arizona Community Foundation’s Kellenberger + Tollefson Center for LGBTQ Philanthropy and the Tollefson + Kellenberger Forum for Social Justice and is active in the Association of Fundraising Professionals.