Professional Background:   Roger Rolke retired from Shell Oil company in 2002 after a 35 year career with 11 different assignments in research, head office, refining, production, and engineering.  In his last position he was Director of Engineering heading up the organization responsible for specialty engineering technology development and support to Shell’s U.S. refining and chemical manufacturing operations.  He holds B.S and  Ph.D. degrees in Chemical Engineering from Wisconsin and Princeton.      Roger and his wife Judy have lived in Houston (this time) since 1986.  He volunteers in several ministries in their church. He also is a chaplain volunteer at Memorial City Hospital and serves on the Engineering Leadership Board of the University of Houston. He is a partner and on the board of Houston Social Venture Partners.

ESCH Experience:  Roger joined ESCH in 2004 and since then has helped more than  6 nonprofits through individualized consultation projects focusing on strategic planning and improved organizational/personnel management.  He is the past Chair of ESCH's Board of Trustees and Chair of the Consultant Relations committee at ESCH.  Currently, Roger serves on ESCh's Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee.  Examples of recent projects include:   The Zip Code Area Ministries initiative seeks to improve the operation of the resale (thrift) stores at 9 of the Houston area assistance ministries and develop a “Thrift Store Manual”. These resale stores generate the majority of funds required to sustain the many programs (food pantry, emergency assistance, counseling, etc.) provided by the ministries.  Roger is on a team of 9 consultants with a lead role in supporting Katy Christian Ministries.  The Seniors Place is a memory care day center supported by a coalition of churches. They requested assistance with developing a marketing plan. Based on their success in attracting participants and filling available capacity we are now working with their board in preparing a strategic plan to address expansion options and other issues. Magnificat Houses, Inc. operates 9 residential houses for the homeless, particularly those who are mentally ill. They also run a daily soup kitchen and many other programs. They requested assistance with developing a strategic plan with particular emphasis on fund raising and future expansion. According to Roger :  I enjoy being a part of ESCH because it gives me a chance to help Houston area non-profits while keeping professionally involved during my retirement years. I am utilizing experience gained during my business career while making new friendships, learning new skills, and becoming more aware of social issues within our community.