Theodore Castele, alumnus and assistant professor of radiology at the School of Medicine, was awarded the 2013 Outstanding Volunteer Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) in recognition of his extraordinary fundraising efforts on behalf of the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and dozens of other philanthropic causes around the country.
Each year during its annual National Philanthropy Day, the AFP recognizes the most inspiring individuals who contribute to fundraising and philanthropy efforts. This year, Case Western Reserve nominated one of its own distinguished alumni and faculty members for the 2013 award—an honor designated for individuals with “exceptional leadership skills in motivating others for fundraising projects that benefit charitable institutions” and who “demonstrates commitment to the advancement of philanthropy.”
“How fulfilling it is for us to see one of our alumni win this award,” said Pamela B. Davis, dean of the Case Western Reserve School of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs. “Not only is Dr. Castele an excellent educator, he has exceptional networking skills and demonstrates a sense of fundraising savvy and excitement that’s awfully hard to resist. He is a genuinely caring person who strongly believes in the importance of the work we do here and who goes the extra mile to find funding for projects that improve the lives of other people. We are extremely proud that a man of his vision, commitment and caring came from within the Case Western Reserve medical school ranks.”
Castele has volunteered as chair of multiple councils and two major fundraising campaigns, including the $300 million “Campaign for the Future of Academic Medicine” in 1999. As further testament to his skill and passion for fundraising, Castele has served as Interim Associate Dean of Development and Alumni Affairs. For the past five years, he has also chaired the School of Medicine’s Commission for the Advancement of Academic Medicine, a group of donors and friends that meet twice a year for fundraising support and school advocacy.
“I am extremely excited and very pleased to be receiving this award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals,” Castele said. “To me, receiving an award from your peers is considered the highest honor. I received all of my education at the School of Medicine, I’m happy to be able to give back to an institution who has given me so much.”
Recently, Castele also spearheaded the School of Medicine’s drive to contribute to CWRU’s $1 billion “Forward Thinking” campaign. Under his leadership, the School of Medicine has raised $287.8 million toward its $350 million goal by March 2013.
“It is an enjoyable experience to help others,” Castele added. “The money isn’t raised to just raise money; it’s raised to help people. That’s been my goal all my life.”