Heather Rue

Driven by the powerful belief that transformed lives can change the world, this dynamic marketing executive brings an impressive blend of global brand experience to her role as the marketing and communications leader at the University of Montana Foundation. Her remarkable journey through the worlds of sports, entertainment, hospitality, and conservation has equipped her with a unique perspective on creating meaningful impact through higher education.

At the helm of the UM Foundation's marketing initiatives, she currently spearheads the groundbreaking "Treasure Montana – Cultivating Our Tomorrow" campaign, launched in April 2024. This visionary project aims to secure $20 million in private support to establish Montana's premier environment and conservation hub at the University of Montana campus, strategically positioning the institution to unlock a $25 million state funding match.

Her legacy at the UM Foundation already includes orchestrating the most successful higher education fundraising campaign in Montana's history. The "Campaign Montana – Think Big. Be Bold." initiative raised an extraordinary $450.9 million, engaging over 34,000 donors and transforming opportunities across every facet of the university.

Her expertise in experiential brand marketing has left an indelible mark on some of the world's most prestigious organizations. She has masterfully crafted integrated marketing programs for corporate giants including MCI Telecommunications, Philips Electronics, Norelco, Sonicare, and The Ranch at Rock Creek. Her innovative approach to experiential and sponsorship marketing has fostered powerful partnerships with Major League Baseball, US Soccer, PGA of America, the Goodwill Games, and the U.S. Open of Surfing, alongside collaborations with iconic brands such as Nike, Bose, Schwinn, and National Geographic.

As a seasoned brand strategist, she excels in comprehensive brand management, strategic planning, and creative content development, including specialized speech writing. Her project management prowess extends to leading production, creative, and digital teams, often orchestrating seamless collaboration among global branding, advertising, PR, media production, and digital marketing specialists. Her event production portfolio spans hundreds of corporate and non-profit initiatives, from executive retreats and product launches to trade shows, investor relations meetings, and high-profile hospitality events, consistently delivering experiences that resonate and inspire.