Nonprofits and Education
President and CEO
The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation | Milwaukee
Since 2016, Rick Graber has led the Milwaukee-based Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation, a grant-making institution with about $850 million in net assets that annually grants roughly $40 million in support of organizations related to the arts, culture, education, health and conservative ideals. Previously, Graber was chairman of the Republican Party of Wisconsin, president and chief executive officer of Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, U.S. ambassador to the Czech Republic under President George W. Bush, and a senior VP at Honeywell International.
Education: Bachelor’s, Duke University; J.D., Boston University Law School
What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
"My first job was with the Parks Department in Lakewood, Ohio. My primary task was to pick up waste in the parks. During that summer, I learned a lot about work ethic, becoming part of a team and engaging with colleagues who were decades older."
What piece of advice has had the most significant impact on your career?
"
Advice from Dave Cote, CEO of Honeywell: 'Go slow to go fast.'"
What are some of your favorite destinations/places to visit?
"A favorite destination will always be the beautiful city of Prague."
What is one book you think everyone should read and why?
"'Churchill: Walking With Destiny,' by Andrew Roberts. The story of a remarkable man who altered the course of history."
What’s your hobby/passion?
"I enjoy golf--most days. The game is a constant struggle physically and mentally--but in those moments of success, it's incredible."
What would people be surprised to learn about you (fun fact)?
"I went sky diving strapped to a member of the Czech special forces while serving as U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic. Totally out of character."
What was your first car? How long did you drive it for?
"A blue Ford Taurus. I drove it through my first year at Reinhart Boerner until I could afford a new one!"
What advice would you give to a young professional?
"See above: Go slow to go fast. Listen, think, prepare and rethink before acting or speaking."
What is one thing you would change about Wisconsin to make it even better?
"Wisconsin has so much potential--but we are held back by government policies. Most importantly, we must improve our K-12 education system by enabling all parents to choose the best education option for their children--whether public schools, charter schools, home schooling or private schools. The more options the better. The pandemic proved that a one size fits all approach is not working. We owe it to the kids."
Is there a nonprofit cause that has special meaning to you?
"As the leader of a grant making organization, I am privileged to interact with many nonprofit organizations. The unsung heroes in our community are the leaders of the many small organizations quietly making our community and state a better place to live and work--organizations that champion the dignity of every single person. Far more effective than government solutions, these organizations are the foundation of civil society in
Wisconsin."
What is the biggest risk you've ever taken: "Leaving a great job with Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren for the then-unknown (to me) world of diplomacy. And then years later, leaving a great job with Honeywell for the then unknown world (to me) of philanthropy."
What has you most excited about the future?
"America remains the greatest, most unique country on earth. To this day, our country truly is a land of hope and opportunity. While our institutions are under attack today, the strength and will of most average Americans will ultimately prevail. We must not forget how lucky we are to be citizens of this great country."
