Fulbright College Welcomes Two New Development Officers

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Blake Rickman (left), Charles Gaines (right)

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences has filled two open positions in its office of development and external relations.

Blake Rickman will serve as associate director of development and Charles Gaines as assistant director of development for the college’s office of development and external relations. Focusing on building relationships with people who have a passion for the Fulbright legacy and are interested in promoting the college’s academic programs and research, each will manage a portfolio of fund-raising prospects and charitable foundations and assist with prospect research, donor relations and special events.

“With their varied experience, commitment to Fulbright College and passion for leadership, Blake and Charles are excellent additions to our team,” said Ashlie Hilbun, Fulbright College director of development and external relations. “We look forward to the positive impact they will have on the college and the entire university community.”

Rickman joins Fulbright College after serving as the assistant director of development for the College of Engineering, where he managed a major gift portfolio and coordinated the college’s scholarship process. Since joining university development in 2009, he has also worked in the office of annual programs and records and data services.

Rickman earned a Master of Education from the University of Arkansas College of Education and Health Professions and a Bachelor of Arts from Arkansas Tech University.

“This is a great opportunity to take what I’ve learned in various areas of university development and pair it with my love for the liberal arts,” Rickman said. “I’m so impressed with Fulbright College and all of the interesting research and innovative teaching happening here, and I look forward to sharing those stories with others.”

Prior to joining Fulbright College, Gaines led public relations and communications at Field Agent, Inc. Gaines additionally served as political advisor and regional director on several state and congressional campaigns, respectively.

Gaines is a member of the Community Leadership Council for the Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Northwest Arkansas, a member of the leadership team for WorkMatters Institute and a digital ambassador for the Northwest Arkansas Council.

Gaines graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Abilene Christian University, where he served as student body president and as a member of the Presidential Search Advisory Committee.

“I am thrilled to be joining such an iconic institution of higher education,” Gaines said. “I particularly look forward to cherishing many new relationships, while having the opportunity to witness the unparalleled impact of the Fulbright College in both Arkansas and abroad.”