A distinguished philanthropy professional, Charles Stephens` career of service to the nonprofit world includes national chairmanship of the 20,000 member Association of Fundraising Professionals. In honor of his dedication to the field of philanthropy, the AFP initiated the Charles R. Stephens Excellence in Diversity Award. Also in recognition of his leadership, the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University’s awarded Mr. Stephens the Henry A. Rossi Medal for lifetime achievement in ethical fundraising. The AFP Foundation recently awarded Mr. Stephens the AFP Founders Medallion. He has extensive experience with higher education and national associations, and in corporate, foundation and community relations. Before joining Skystone Ryan, his professional career included chief development officer/vice president positions with Indiana University’s prestigious Center on Philanthropy, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College and The College Fund/UNCF. A long-time Atlantan, he has also been a faculty member of the Fund Raising School in Indianapolis since 1984 and was an adjunct consultant with the Lilly Endowment for five years. An active volunteer in Atlanta and nationally, Mr. Stephens has served on Boards or committees of over two dozen organizations including the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and the Higher Education Round Table. He graduated from Morehouse College and earned his Master’s degree from Central Michigan University.

To contact Mr. Stephens call 800.883.0801 or e-mail him at cstephens@skystoneryan.com