It is with a heavy heart that we share the sudden passing of our colleague and friend, Steve Rusk, CFRE.
Steve was a strategic problem-solver and a leader in the world of direct-response fundraising. For more than four decades, he brought curiosity, insight, and creativity to every challenge—carefully studying data, understanding audiences, and turning what he learned into meaningful solutions that helped organizations achieve their missions.
But beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve will be remembered for his generosity of spirit, his wisdom, his quick wit, and the kindness he showed to colleagues and clients alike.
Before joining Newport ONE, Steve served as Senior Vice President of Client Services at Meyer Partners and previously as Vice President of Client Services at Russ Reid Company. Throughout his career, he helped shape the field of fundraising and mentored countless professionals who were fortunate enough to learn from him.
Steve loved music and was a radio DJ in the late 70’s when he met his wife, Catherine. He also loved traveling and took his family on many cruises and trips—memories that they cherish.
Steve loved his family deeply and was looking forward to retirement. He is survived by his wife, Catherine, and his daughter, Melissa.
Steve was an organ donor so to honor his memory and the impact he had on so many lives, donations are being made to Gift of Hope, Organ & Tissue Donor Network, www.giftofhope.org.
We will miss Steve deeply and are grateful for the time we had with him. His legacy in his work, his mentorship, and his friendship will continue to inspire us.