
You show up for a new job and find:
No office
No staff
No public phone number
No website
No email address
But to Diane Kaplan, Rasmuson Foundation offered a welcome addition to her consulting business and the job as part-time administrator, interesting new work.
The Rasmusons were a third-generation Alaska family who made their money in banking and investments. Family matriarch Jenny Rasmuson created the Foundation in 1955 to honor her late husband, E.A. Rasmuson. In 1995, when her son and grandson hired Kaplan as its first and only employee, the Foundation had $5.8 million in assets and awarded some $300,000 a year in grants. Manageable on a part-time basis.
In 1999, everything changed.
In February, on his 90th birthday, Elmer Rasmuson donated $40 million to the Foundation. Clearly, a part-time “administrator” was no longer enough.
With Elmer’s concurrence, his son Ed Rasmuson asked Diane to take on running the Foundation full-time. “It meant closing down the consulting business I had built — not an easy decision,” Kaplan said. In December 2000, Elmer Rasmuson died, leaving the Foundation $400 million. Ten months later, Kaplan was named full-time president and CEO of what is now the largest private funder in Alaska.
Kaplan will depart the Foundation in 2023, leaving behind an organization that grants $25 to $30 million annually to nonprofits, cities, tribes and individuals. Through her curative involvement in public issues, her organizing acumen and ability to bring people together, and her willingness to tackle broken bits of the power structure, Kaplan has transformed philanthropy in Alaska. She leaves behind an art-filled workspace, a trained and committed staff of 28, and a promise that the Foundation — which has grown its assets to about $800 million — will continue its mission into the indefinite future.
[Read and download our press release.]
A new approach

Diane Kaplan connects with a child during a 2017 visit to Oscarville, a village on the Kuskokwim River near Bethel.
As president and CEO, Kaplan’s approach to philanthropy raised the bar for funder partnership with business, government and other nonprofits. Championing bold initiatives like dental health aides for rural villages, the check-off charity option on the PFD application, sabbaticals for over-worked talent in the social sector, and the creation of community funds in cities and towns across the state, she embraced strategic grantmaking while carrying on the Rasmuson family tradition to be approachable, available and assisting.
“Diane has left an indelible mark not just on Rasmuson Foundation, but on philanthropy and the nonprofit community across Alaska,” said Foundation board Chair Adam Gibbons, a fourth-generation Rasmuson family member. “With her fearless and tireless leadership, we’ve been willing to tackle some of Alaska’s greatest challenges, from oral health care to alcoholism, from abandoned parks to abandoned people. She and her team have scoured Alaska far and wide, listening, making friendships, building connections and finding opportunities where the Foundation can help. We are so very grateful that Diane decided to make Alaska her home.”
Under Kaplan’s stewardship, the Foundation has invested nearly $500 million and leveraged millions more for Alaska organizations, including serving as impetus for the distribution of a $47 million Alaska Coronavirus Nonprofit Relief Fund, the creation of a multi-million dollar public-private partnership to solve homelessness in Anchorage, and a camps initiative that helped 12,000 Alaska kids get outdoors with friends after a year of pandemic isolation.
Tailormade tour of Alaska
Under Kaplan, the Foundation has created an arts and culture initiative focused on putting dollars into the hands of artists. The announcement of the Rasmuson Foundation Individual Artist Awards, with grants ranging from $7,500 to $40,000, is a statewide annual arts event. But perhaps Kaplan’s most innovative initiative is the Foundation’s annual Grantmakers Tour of Alaska, a late summer getting-to-know-you visit for Outside grantmakers who typically do not fund Alaska projects, largely because Alaska is unfamiliar territory.
This tour takes them to rural villages and urban hotspots, to uplifting cultural venues and issue-oriented tribal meetings. Brave ones take a polar plunge in the Arctic. Most catch their first fish. Maybe there’s a boat ride to a village on the Kuskokwim. They see climate change firsthand in communities like Shishmaref, visit the Prudhoe Bay oilfield, take a ride to “nowhere” on the Alaska Railroad with 100 nonprofit leaders, and more. All of it is exhausting perhaps, but leavened by good food and great conversation with so many of Alaska’s best. A week later, the funders return home filled with new and useful information about the Far North. And when proposals to assist on a project come from Rasmuson Foundation, they understand; Alaska is now familiar, possible, inviting.
At 8:29 a.m. on Nov. 30, 2018, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Southcentral Alaska, its epicenter 10 miles north of Anchorage. Highways twisted. Houses fell. Power failed. Kaplan called anyone who could help — local funders and many of the national funders who now knew Alaska. In hours, a disaster relief fund was established.
For all kinds of initiatives and projects, tour participants have invested more than $300 million in Alaska.
All in with visionaries
In addition to the Foundation’s organized and earmarked programming, Kaplan is well known for her practice of listening to and supporting visionary entrepreneurs in the social sector: the engineering professor who built a school for Alaska Native students, the clerk from Old Harbor who rose through the ranks to run an internationally lauded health center, the woman from Savoonga who grew up to be president of a powerful regional nonprofit, the Alutiiq archeologist striving to revitalize his language and culture, the Olympic skier who runs a statewide community foundation with assets of $225 million.
And always the lost, the have-nots, those needing help with that first step to a better life, be it health, education, a home, sobriety, a job, a school — Kaplan believes solutions exist and it’s the job of people like her — and everyone in the nonprofit world — to find them.
The search for Kaplan’s replacement is underway. She will remain president and CEO until a new one is in place. During the search, she will continue to repaint the Alaska philanthropic landscape, depending on her talented and dedicated staff and always honoring the values of her mission partner — the late chairman of the board, Ed Rasmuson.
Want to learn more? Read and download our press release.
Posted by Lara Iglitzin
Diane, we will all miss your incredible energy, innovation and leadership. I personally remember many opportunities where I learned from you, and I am particularly grateful to have been able to participate in your innovative grant makers from outside Alaska tour many years ago. You will be missed in the community but you have made a great impact!
Posted by Lara Iglitzin
Diane we all benefited from your leadership, energy, and innovation at the helm for so many years. Personally I admired you and was fortunate enough to participate in your Alaska Outside grantmakers tour many years ago. Your constant sparkle and your ideas and accomplishments will be felt throughout the community for many years to come. Kudos to you.
Posted by Eliza Eller
Diane, you will be missed by so many all around Alaska. Your vision and innovation, your heart and guts will be missed. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all you have done! And happy trails wherever you walk next. With hugs, from all of us at Ionia
Posted by Jayson Smart
You know, they write books about people like Diane. That rare person who seizes each day like it could be her last. So why not create a new way of thinking about philanthropy in a place like AK? Heck, let’s transform the field of dentistry, that not only makes people better but also creates whole new professional opportunities and community wellness. Oh ya, while we’re at it, let’s invest in Alaska’s cultural resources and artists to better leverage the creativity and beauty of this very special place. And then there’s the idea of bolstering Alaska’s nonprofit sector by putting very smart people together to create and grow one of the strongest nonprofit communities in the country. Pick, Click, Give, why yes I will! Put Alaska’s children first? Of course we will do that!
Well this story will go on. We’ve barely got past the Foreword and there’s many more stories and chapters to tell. There’s also all the people whose lives have been directly touched by Diane, mine included, that are part of the story. Thank you Diane for visionary being, your mentorship, your generosity, curiosity and brilliance. And, while I won’t dare play another game of Words With Friends with you (is that still a thing?), I eagerly await the next time we can play Snerts!
Posted by Jeff Trandahl
One of Alaska’s greatest – and now we are all excited to see the next chapter! Everyone appreciates all your past (and future) work for Alaska, it’s communities and the promise for an even greater tomorrow.
Posted by Carla Beam
Wishing you all the best with your next chapter. Alaska has been good to so many of us who, like you, came up here and were willing to tackle new challenges at every turn. Thank you for championing access to the opportunity for all Alaskans to enjoy a good life.
Posted by Shirley Mae Springer Staten
Thanks, Diane for all the support you have given to our communities.
Keys to Life social justice initiatives were supported by Rasmuson. Your work has a ripple effect in our communities that will continue to move lives. We appreciate the vision and energy that you give to our communities.
Posted by Ann Myren
Thank you Diane! Your vision for what can be and your dedication to providing opportunities for so many has made a huge difference in communities around our state. Your leadership, mentoring and caring will be missed. Congratulations on all your successes and best of luck in your next endeavors. I hope they bring you to Haines.
Posted by Drena McIntyre
My late husband, Brad, used to say “It’s good to see your way forward, but always pay attention to what you leave in your wake”. Diane: your wake is impressive and far reaching. Thank you for ALL you have done and, no doubt, will continue to do!
Posted by Orin Levine
You leave an amazing legacy of leadership and entrepreneurship from your time as CEO. And count me among the many who have a deeper understanding of Alaska as a result of your Grantmakers tour. But mostly I’m just glad for the friendships that you helped create. Thanks Diane.
Posted by Carol Gore
Diane – you were the first to elevate housing as another opportunity to make a difference. This is not the usual place for philanthropy, but that never stopped you from doing the right thing. I am forever grateful for your leadership in all things people, place and culture. Most of all, you made all of us better. Your fierce belief in us all is powerful. I know you have more to do – standing by to support your transition and the next chapter in your amazing journey.
Posted by Fran Ulmer
You have demonstrated what a difference dedicated and impactful leadership makes. Countless people, projects and communities are better, stronger, healthier and happier because of you and your team. Thank you for all your efforts to focus the Foundation’s work and for the hundreds of millions of philanthropic dollars from “Outside” that you helped to bring to Alaska with the annual Funders Tour. Hope you’ll get to spend more time fishing for salmon and watching bears!
Posted by Rob Morris
Thank you for your tireless support of Alaska – its people, communities, non-profits, the works. Best wishes to you in your next chapter!
Posted by Margaret Pugh
Diane, you have made a difference in the State of Alaska and the lives of Alaskans. Everyone has benefitted from you sharing your talent, tenacity and boundless energy–and I know that will continue!
Posted by Shari Paul
Diane, Thank you for your leadership in Tikkun Olam. Your vision and determination has helped Many Alaskans preserve and strengthen their lives.
Posted by Shelley Gill
I remember when you left public radio and I wondered what in the world? Well you certainly had the vision and the drive and passion. Thank you for making Alaska a permanent home for the arts.
Posted by Jewel Jones
Two square miles across the Glenn Highway in northeast Anchorage is a neighborhood called Mountain View. Diane and the Rasmuson Foundation had a vision to engage the residents, hear their hopes and dreams, provide resources, restore vitality. Thank you Diane for your leadership, drive, and never taking no for an answer. Yes we can – works.
Posted by Tara Sweeney
Diane…just so much love, gratitude and respect for the monumental, life changing impact you and the Rasmuson Foundation have had on the lives and livelihoods of Alaskans from north, south, east and west. I admire your tenacity and compassion. Thank you for making our Alaskan community better.
Posted by Melanie Leydon, Alaska Childrens Trust
Mahalo nui, Diane, for your decades of love, caring and thoughtfulness you bestowed on Alaska. You are a North Star, leading and sharing at the benefit of our past, present and future Alaskans. Wishing you the best!
Posted by Melanie Leydon, Alaska Childrens Trust
Mahalo nui, Diane, for your decades of dedication to Alaska and its people. You have been a North Star for our past, present and future Alaskans and our well-being. Thank you!
Posted by Debbie Reinwand
Diane, it has been an honor and pleasure to work with you on projects, and to see the difference you have made in the lives of so many Alaskans and Alaska communities. You are amazing.
Posted by Lisa Wade
Tsin’aen Ce’e! Big thanks to you for everything you have accomplished, and I wish you wonderful new and well-deserved adventures.
Posted by Morgan Christen
With heartfelt thanks and gratitude for your leadership, tenacity, faith in Alaskans, hard work and big heart – we will all be anxiously awaiting the next chapter!
Posted by Chef Amy Foote
Thank you for all you have done Diane! You are inspiring, I wish for you a lovely celebration with a secret stash of frybread!
Posted by Jo Michalski
You have made a difference that is incalculable and greatly appreciated by all Alaskans and our beloved state ❤️
Thank you!
Posted by Laura Schue
What an absolute legacy. Many thanks for the boundless energy and initiative you’ve provided for all our benefits!
Posted by Carol Sturgulewski
The world shifted a little when I read this! We’ll miss your leadership, but are so, so grateful for it. And I can’t wait to see what you want to do next!
Posted by Rodger Painter
Alaska is losing an incredible force for helping those in need. Congratulations for all you have done. May you have a wonderful life ahead.
Posted by Mary Anne Carter
Diane,
You are so amazing. You are an inspiration to the team you work with, all Alaskans and those of us lucky enough to have crossed paths with you. My trip to Alaska with the Grantmakers Tour was incredibly eye-opening. I will never forget it. It is a cherished memory. Best wishes to you as you embark on a new chapter.
Posted by Kristen Solana Walkinshaw
What an incredible legacy, Diane. Your work has touched thousands of lives and in so many ways has made Alaska an even better place to live and work. Deepest gratitude for your service.
Posted by Katherine Gottlieb
Emotions like
Happy, get to spend more quality time together with you
Sad, the Alaska Rasmuson role your leaving as mover and shaker
Excited, for whatever comes next
Grateful, for the many blessings that have come through your service, dedication and hard work.
Posted by Mary Sattler Peltola
Diane- I’m so thankful for your years invested in Alaska, and thankful you’ve got months yet ahead. You’ll be hearing from me in the near future about wild salmon.
Posted by Tod Burnett
Diane, you have made an incredible impact on thousands of our students, three universities, and communities. Thank you for your strong partnership with the UA Foundation and a personal thanks for your support and guidance to me as the new kid on the block. We look forward to the great work you will continue to do and our continued partnership in making Alaska a better place for all.
Posted by Patty Ginsburg
The difference you have made in Alaska is (to use an old term from the ‘70s) mind-blowing. Truly, what an incredible legacy you leave.
Posted by Beth Rose
Diane, you have contributed so much to this state in so many ways. Thank you for making a tremendous difference across Alaska and lifting up so many nonprofits and individuals. You are leaving quite a legacy. I can’t wait to hear about what comes next for you!
Posted by Jenny Forner
Diane you have done an amazing job! All the best to you in the next chapter of your life!
The Anchorage re:MADE Team thanks you!
Posted by Rich Owens
Diane,
Alaska, even with all it’s current problems, would not be as successful as we are without your leadership and the support of the Rasmuson Foundation. Your vision of Alaska’s potential is unrivaled, and we are fortunate to have had you leading us for this many years. The arts, education, health care, and everything in between have benefited during your 28 year tenure. Thank you.
Posted by Byron Perkins, DO
We have been blessed, and you have been so much a part of that blessing. We bless you as you move into new adventures in life.
Posted by Michelle Egan
Diane, you are amazing and your legacy is beyond measure. You’re a problem solver, a convener, a coach, a visionary and you’ve created opportunity for so many.
Posted by Steve Lindbeck
Wow — this will truly be the end of an era. You’ve done amazing work, Diane, and Alaska is far better for it. We all owe you thanks and gratitude. What a legacy!
Posted by Deborah Bonito
Diane, you are a Philanthropy Genius. Fueled by your ethic to leave the world a more just and thriving place, your intuition and creativity, you have built a powerful and lasting agency of change. Well done, my friend!
Posted by Melanie Bahnke
Our whole state is better because of Diane and her lifelong commitment to improving conditions for the people she loves. Diane, thank you so much for all that you have done. Your legacy is unmatched. Thank you for lifting so many of us up, and mentoring us, and for fighting the good fight in pursuit of justice and equity. You are loved by many.
Posted by PercyBallot
Man!! Always appreciated you through the years including in Ruralcap (hehe) way back when! I’m looking to address the elders wing in Kotzebue and to spice up the at-home opts care for elders in need for few hours a day. Got ideas?