Utah Valley University welcomed Rachelle Rutherford, CEO of Kids on the Move, for the Halladay Lecture Series. She shared her inspiring story of overcoming trauma, balancing education and family, and leading one of Utah’s top nonprofits with resilience, authenticity, and purpose.
Rutherford is a nationally recognized leader, ranked among the top 5% of CEOs in the nation, and heads one of Utah’s most highly rated organizations for workplace culture and employee satisfaction. Under her leadership, KOTM has doubled its operating capital and now boasts a workforce that is 88% female, with more than 80% of those women serving in leadership positions—figures that far exceed both state and national averages.'
Rachelle began her remarks by sharing the deeply personal story that shaped her life’s purpose. As a high-achieving athlete and student, her world changed at age sixteen when she experienced sexual abuse in her home. When she spoke up, she faced disbelief and isolation, leading her to a dark moment where she attempted to take her own life. “In that moment,” she shared, “I realized I wasn’t made to take my life.” Turning to her faith, she sought guidance and felt a clear answer from her Creator: become educated. That direction gave her purpose and a path forward.
Determined to follow that call, Rachelle spent eleven years pursuing two undergraduate degrees and an MBA, all while working full time and raising six children. She found an employer willing to reimburse her education and committed to never missing a class or assignment. “I wanted to make it hard to fail,” she said, underscoring the importance of discipline and perseverance. Her story stands as a powerful example of faith, grit, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth.
Throughout her lecture, Rachelle emphasized that grit is one of the most valuable qualities a person can develop. She invited students to take a moment to close their eyes and repeat a mindfulness exercise, encouraging them to be present and intentional about who they are becoming.
She recounted a defining moment early in her leadership journey when a high-ranking executive publicly pointed a finger in her face and humiliated her during a meeting. Refusing to give that person the satisfaction of breaking her, Rachelle remained composed and later used that moment as fuel to succeed. Her perseverance and tenacity ultimately led to national recognition and greater opportunities that proved the strength of quiet resilience.
Rachelle also spoke about walking into rooms often filled with men and learning to make her presence felt without raising her voice. “Power can be felt without saying a word,” she said, encouraging women to speak up with confidence, contribute thoughtfully, and never underestimate the influence of authenticity.
As the head of a multimillion-dollar nonprofit, Rachelle discussed the realities of running an organization dedicated to service. The greatest challenge, she explained, is funding. Her advice: “Stretch the dollar further and run a nonprofit like a business.” She shared that she is currently leading a $200 million campaign, Hope in Motion, which will build a new Center of Excellence campus for Kids on the Move. The project will expand family support services, early intervention programs, respite care, mental health services, and a state-of-the-art autism center for children and families in need.
Rachelle reminded students that challenges are inevitable, but growth comes through them. “You are the creator of your life,” she said. “You create every opportunity and what you become.” She encouraged students to ask themselves, “Who do you have to be to do the thing you want to do?” Her own career illustrates that principle. When she discovered an organization she was passionate about, she didn’t wait for an invitation—she boldly walked in and asked to serve on their board. It was an unconventional move, as board positions are typically appointed, but her confidence and initiative made an impression. Two weeks later, she was offered a seat. “Ask the hard questions and be who you are,” she told students, urging them to take ownership of their ambitions and create their own doors of opportunity.
Rachelle Rutherford’s journey is one of courage, conviction, and vision. From overcoming trauma to leading an organization that transforms lives, she has built a legacy of turning adversity into empowerment. Her story demonstrates that true leadership is born from purpose, discipline, and compassion—and that with resilience and faith, even the impossible can become possible.
The Woodbury School of Business extends heartfelt thanks to Rachelle Rutherford for sharing her story and insights with UVU students. Her example of strength, perseverance, and authenticity continues to inspire all who strive to lead with purpose and create meaningful impact in their communities.
Want to catch every insight from this year’s Halladay Lecture Series?
Watch Rachelle Rutherford's full lecture below.
