The Impact of Giving

Ruth Modlin Ellett’s life story is grounded in a deep commitment to education, service, and community— values that have shaped her life and career. Her roles as teacher and board member highlight her drive to provide impactful change in the community.

A proud product of North Carolina’s public schools, Modlin Ellett was raised in a home where education and service were not just encouraged but expected.

“I grew up in an era of desegregation of the school systems, and my parents remained committed to public education,” Modlin Ellett recalled. “They also believed in serving our community and our church, whether serving on the Vestry or starting a soup kitchen.”

Her parents led by example, opening their home to neighbors and organizing community events. From hosting homecoming floats to offering a place for people to gather, their home was a hub of connection and care. These early lessons left a lasting impact on Modlin Ellett and her sisters.

“We were expected to become independent women,” she reflected. “If we wanted spending money, we got a job. We were raised to take nothing for granted.”

That foundation set the stage for a career in fundraising and nonprofit education spanning more than 35 years. Today, Modlin Ellett serves as a leading instructor at the University of Richmond’s Institute on Philanthropy (IOP), where she has contributed to shaping a portfolio of comprehensive courses to help nonprofit leaders across the country strengthen their organizations.

Modlin Ellett is also a member of UR’s IOP Advisory Board, where she collaborates with others on changing and refining the Institute’s courses and offerings. Her impactful leadership and dedication to nonprofit education have earned her respect from colleagues, many of whom have taken part in her classes and have gone on to become instructors themselves.

“UR’s IOP offerings are among the best in the country,” Modlin Ellett said.

The Institute is an “apprenticeship shop,” she explained, training nonprofit professionals in ethical fundraising, marketing, and grant writing.

“The curriculum is based on industry best practices and taught by nonprofit leaders who bring a wealth of practical, hands-on experience,” she added. “Colleagues from around the country have chosen these programs because of the comprehensive nature, and the healthy intersection of those who study this field with those of us who are in the trenches as development staff leaders and consultants.”

When asked about her most meaningful achievement, Modlin Ellett didn’t hesitate to highlight her role in shaping future leaders.

“I have been on teams that have raised significant amounts of money to help nonprofits fulfill missions, shore-up annual giving, and secure major gifts,” she said. “But my biggest impact comes from teaching, mentoring, and consulting the nonprofit practitioners of the future.”

Whether in the classroom or the community, Modlin Ellett’s lifelong commitment to service continues to shine. Through her work with the Institute on Philanthropy, she empowers others to lead with integrity, compassion, and a drive to give back. Her legacy is one of unwavering dedication to making an impact — one student, one nonprofit, and one community at a time.