Her Story
About Stormie
Stormie Harless serves as Senior Director of Annual Giving and Foundation Communications at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. She has spent nearly a decade at the institution, with nine years focused on fundraising, advancement marketing, and overseeing foundation communications. Harless began her role in digital communications as an assistant director and has grown her position through initiative, expanding from a team of one to leading a team of five. A first-generation college student, she earned her bachelor's degree in communications from Ball State University, which she attended on scholarship. Prior to her current role, she worked for two years in a marketing client success position at Angie's List. Her expertise encompasses higher education advancement, fundraising communications, digital strategy, and annual giving. Harless attributes her career progression to the investment of her first supervisor, Eric Harvey, who provided opportunities that led her to the foundation. Under her project management, the One Ball State Day Giving Day campaigns have earned multiple Sturgis Awards from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Stormie
01What do you attribute your success to?
As a Christian, God has blessed me tremendously. My first supervisor at Ball State, Eric Harvey, invested in me fully and took a chance on me even though I had a lot to learn. He introduced me to the foundation which led to my career path.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Be resourceful - come to your supervisor when needed but exhaust your options first rather than asking for everything. Also be an enjoyable person to be around since you spend so much time with coworkers.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't just say that's not in my job description. Make your position more than what it was by taking initiative and proving yourself. Recognize if you're in a place not recognizing your hard work, but also be self-aware and not entitled - you have to prove yourself.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Higher ed is facing questions about its value from political people and government, leading to fewer people applying for college. The cost is out of control. As a foundation, we're raising philanthropic support to combat costs and give opportunities, showing real alumni success stories like in our Because of Ball State campaign.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Transparency and trust are super important. If I felt like my supervisor didn't trust me, I would probably not work here. Integrity is key, especially at a university facing political pressure. The foundation and university do a good job with transparency.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.