Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Pertinent Life Information
Timeline
Generic

Michelle Ocheltree

Coraopolis,PA

Summary

Strategic Major Gifts Officer known for high productivity and efficient completion of tasks. Specialize in relationship building, and strategic planning. Excel in communication, empathy, and adaptability to meet and exceed fundraising goals. Bring focused approach to developing successful donor strategies and fostering meaningful connections.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Senior Major Gifts Officer

Washington & Jefferson College
Washington, PA
06.2012 - 04.2016
  • Cultivated relationships with major donors to enhance fundraising efforts.
  • Coordinated strategic fundraising campaigns aligned with institutional goals.
  • Developed personalized engagement plans for high-value prospects and donors.
  • Planned and organized dozens of on and off-site collegiate alumni and donor events.

Senior Gift Officer

Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
03.2008 - 06.2012
  • Participated in regular meetings with senior management regarding progress updates on current initiatives in fundraising.
  • Ensured the security and confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Represented the organization at university events and conferences both on and off-site
  • Coordinated cross-departmental projects to achieve university objectives regarding fundraising for buildings, scholarships, and programs.

Major Gifts Officer

Washington & Jefferson College
Washington, PA
07.2006 - 03.2008
  • Cultivated relationships with non-donors to lead them to philanthropic activity
  • Worked with major donors to enhance philanthropic engagement and increase gifts.
  • Developed tailored proposals that addressed donor interests and institutional needs.
  • Coordinated fundraising events to promote donor involvement and college initiatives.

Senior Admission Officer

Washington & Jefferson College
Washington, Pa
06.2000 - 07.2006
  • Conducted daily interviews of high school students/prospective freshmen and transfer students.
  • Coordinated on-site recruitment events and open houses for prospective students and their families.
  • Developed training materials for new student tour guides on college policies and procedures and incorporated regular refresher training for seasoned tour guides.
  • Traveled throughout the U.S. to meet with guidance and college counselors and prospective students to inform them about W&J College.

Education

Master of Science - Curriculum And Instruction

Robert Morris University
Coraopolis, PA
01.2003 - 05.2005

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology

Washington & Jefferson College
Washington, PA
08.1996 - 05.2000

Skills

  • Fundraising strategy
  • Donor relationship management
  • Prospect research
  • Event coordination and follow-up
  • Student engagement and involvement
  • Travel savvy
  • Ability to work both independently and within a team setting

Pertinent Life Information

I left W&J under good circumstances in 2016 awaiting the birth of my third child. I loved my job, but I needed to make that sacrifice for my family. I supported my husband and his law career by caring for our children full time. Additionally, I helped to care for my ill mother for nearly five years up to her passing in 2024. I have been heavily involved as a parent volunteer at our children’s schools over those years as well helping to coordinate multiple engagement and fundraising events.

Timeline

Senior Major Gifts Officer

Washington & Jefferson College
06.2012 - 04.2016

Senior Gift Officer

Duquesne University
03.2008 - 06.2012

Major Gifts Officer

Washington & Jefferson College
07.2006 - 03.2008

Master of Science - Curriculum And Instruction

Robert Morris University
01.2003 - 05.2005

Senior Admission Officer

Washington & Jefferson College
06.2000 - 07.2006

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology

Washington & Jefferson College
08.1996 - 05.2000