Dr. Theresa Ricke-Kiely is an esteemed figure in nonprofit leadership and mindfulness, distinguished by her multifaceted roles as a leader, educator, and advocate. Throughout her career, she has held pivotal positions at renowned nonprofits and universities across several states, including New York, South Carolina, Indiana, and Minnesota, where she has empowered students with her teachings on nonprofit and NGO leadership, fostering a generation dedicated to mission-driven endeavors.
As a clinical faculty member at the University of Arizona's School of Government & Public Policy, Dr. Ricke-Kiely continues to impart her expertise to aspiring leaders, nurturing their understanding of governance, nonprofit leadership, and public service. With a professional tenure spanning over 30 years, she has been a champion for civil and human rights within the nonprofit sector, driven by her unwavering commitment to equity and social justice.
Beyond academia, Dr. Ricke-Kiely extends her influence through her coaching and consulting practice, collaborating with nonprofit leaders and boards to cultivate mindfulness and amplify their mission impact. Her dedication to the community is evident in her volunteer work, where she shares her insights on leadership and mindfulness with underinvested communities, enriching lives beyond the classroom.
As a scholar, Dr. Ricke-Kiely has authored numerous scholarly articles and blogs on nonprofit leadership and mindfulness, contributing significantly to the discourse in her field. Additionally, she serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Nonprofit Leadership and Education, further shaping the nonprofit landscape. In 2023, she was recognized as a Fulbright Specialist candidate in nonprofit leadership.
Dr. Ricke-Kiely has taught students from diverse cultural backgrounds, enriching her perspective and broadening her impact on a global scale. Her expertise has been sought after internationally, as evidenced by her presentations at conferences worldwide, where she continues to inspire and enlighten audiences with her insights and experiences.
When she is not teaching or consulting, Dr. Ricke-Kiely seeks refuge in the warmth of Tucson, Arizona, alongside her husband, David, and their cat, Kitty Blue, who excels at keeping everyone in the present moment.