Washburn University Foundation Welcomes Harlow as Ahrens Retires

Martin Ahrens, Washburn University Foundation senior development director, retired in July after nearly 13 years of service. During his tenure, Ahrens worked closely with the law school to build relationships with alumni and donors, and raise funds for scholarships, faculty and program development, and, most recently, the new law school facility.

“Martin has been a steadfast and loyal supporter of Washburn for many years,” said Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek, president, Washburn University Foundation. “His family has a long legacy of dedication to Washburn Law. As part of our team, Martin has cultivated lasting relationships with faculty, staff, students, and alumni. He has had a major impact on Washburn Law’s ability to provide scholarships and facilitate faculty and program development. We wish Martin well in retirement and greatly appreciate his efforts through the years.”

Before joining the Foundation, Ahrens worked at the Menninger Foundation, developing and managing its planned giving program. He also worked in Washburn University’s Advancement Office as director of development. He received a bachelor’s degree in history from Washburn University and a juris doctor from the University of Colorado School of Law. He served as president of the Topeka Council of Philanthropy and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

A search is underway to fill the senior development director position.

Sean Harlow, a 2002 Washburn University School of Law graduate, joined the Foundation as a development director April 30. Harlow has spent the last decade working in the advancement offices at Harvard Law School, Rice University, and St. John’s Preparatory School. He received a bachelor’s degree in government from Hamilton College in 1991.

As a Washburn Law student, Harlow spearheaded two successful annual campaigns, setting records for organizational and individual fundraising. As assistant director of alumni relations for Harvard Law School, he shaped reunion, local association, and special event programming; developed philanthropic relationships with law firms and corporations; and launched the Harvard Law School Association’s Continuing Legal Education program.

Harlow served as a senior member of the alumni relations office at Rice University and as managing director of alumni relations at St. John’s Preparatory School. Throughout his career, Harlow has been involved in multimillion-dollar campaigns and will be dedicated to raising funds for Washburn University’s new law building.

Dean Thomas Romig said, “We have enjoyed working with Martin and look forward to working with Sean to make the new law building a reality. Sean brings not only expertise and enthusiasm to his position, but also an appreciation for Washburn Law’s enduring legacy and excellent reputation.”

“I’m excited to be back during this transformative time in Washburn Law’s history and I look forward to being part of another successful campaign,” Harlow said.