USAO's own Dr. Michael Nealeigh recently joined more than 5,300 professionals around the world who have been awarded the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation.

The CFRE designation is part of CFRE International. Nealeigh is vice president for university advancement at USAO and is one of only 58 Oklahomans with the CFRE designation.

“This is both an honor and a critically important credential,” Nealeigh said. “USAO is earning high marks for setting high standards, and this is an important bar for me in service to the university. It is a privilege to assist donors in building a legacy in education.”

Individuals granted the CFRE credential have met a series of standards set by the organization which include tenure in the profession, education, demonstrated fundraising achievement and a commitment to service to not-for-profit organizations.

In addition, they have agreed to uphold "Accountability Standards" and the "Donor Bill of Rights." Candidates also must pass a rigorous written examination testing the knowledge, skills and abilities required for a fundraising executive.

“The CFRE process was developed as a way to identify for the public and employers those individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and commitment to perform fundraising duties in an effective, conscientious, ethical and professional manner,” said Andrew Day, chair of CFRE International. “Achievement of the CFRE credential demonstrates the level of commitment on the part of Dr. Nealeigh to himself and the profession as a whole.”

CFRE recipients are awarded certification for a three-year period. In order to maintain certification status, individuals must continue to demonstrate on-going fundraising employment, fundraising results and continue with their professional education.

"Employers and donors who work with CFRE recipients know they are getting someone who is committed to the best outcomes for their organization and someone who is committed to their profession," Day said.

CFRE International is an independent organization whose sole mission is dedicated to the certification of fundraising executives by setting standards in philanthropy. This single, universal baseline organization works in cooperation with leading philanthropic associations. The organization is currently celebrating its silver anniversary—25 years of Voluntary Fundraising Certification and celebrating recognition of the credential in five nations around the globe. More information about CFRE can be found on their website at www.cfre.org.

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Dr. Michael Nealeigh, vice president for university advancement at the University of Science and Arts, has earned the Certified Fund Raising Executive certification by CFRE International for high standards, tenure, service, education and commitment. Nealeigh joined the USAO administration in August 2006.