The Michael Wassmer Foundation

Mike’s Story

Mike Wassmer lived his life always seeking out what was possible. He was hard working, honest, and compassionate. He relentlessly embraced new challenges—as an athlete, leader and life-long learner. He was an extraordinary person on all accounts.

Growing up, Mike’s family experienced a number of setbacks that shaped his outlook on life. These experiences taught him the value of commitment and discipline, empowering him to push himself harder.

Mike was a first generation college student and he believed in the transformative power of education to change people’s lives. He joined Capital One as an entry-level analyst, and after 28 years, Mike’s career culminated in his position as President of the company’s Credit Card business. Over this time, Mike constantly sought to improve himself while simultaneously focusing on elevating and mentoring those around him.

Mike was committed to spending his time on the things that mattered the most to him; he rarely missed a family dinner, kids’ sporting event, or a workout. And for nearly three decades, he spent countless hours striving to make his home—Richmond, Virginia—a better place.

By identifying and supporting outstanding young adults, the Michael Wassmer Foundation gives students the opportunity to be like Mike—a person who never saw limits and was committed to working hard and making a difference. Through the Foundation, Mike’s family and friends will continue what he started, paying his success forward to the next generation of exceptional students from Virginia’s capital.

About us

The Michael Wassmer Foundation is a nonprofit that was founded in September of 2022, shortly after Mike passed away from an undiagnosed heart condition. Mike was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, friend and community leader.

He is dearly missed, but his family is proud to continue his philanthropic legacy in Virginia by granting significant need-based scholarships to outstanding high school seniors in the City of Richmond, and the counties of Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico. Wassmer Scholars will reflect Mike’s core values of resilience, integrity, compassion and determination.

Leadership Team

Andrea Wassmer

Board President

Claudia rinaldi

Board Secretary

zachary Wassmer

Board Member

owen Wassmer

Board Member

Allie wassmer

Junior Board Member

CONTACT

If you have any questions, please contact us at info@wassmerfoundation.org

PO Box 29786
Henrico, Virginia 23242

Please note that many questions can be answered in the FAQ section.

Memories of mike

“Mike deeply cared, and we’re all better for it. He cared about pushing himself to be his best. He cared about enabling those around him to achieve their goals. He cared about the mission, culture, and success of Capital One and card. And, most of all, he cared about his family.”

Chad Eisele, colleague

“Mike shared how he grew up in a challenging socioeconomic environment and how that fueled his passion in the workplace and in his community investment work. As someone who grew up similarly, it was incredibly inspiring to hear Mike’s story and see how he never lost the desire to help others in his community who needed it most.”

Zainep Mahmoud, colleague

“Mike’s leadership did not stop at the walls of Capital One. He was so passionate about the impact that we can have in the community, and his legacy in his adopted hometown of Richmond will be felt for many years.”

Colin Ruh, colleague

“Mike was kind, curious, pragmatic, and down to earth. He shared context, asked for my opinion, and pushed me to think big. He made me feel included.”

Cindy Viener, colleague

“I don’t remember Mike missing a single practice or game. When I’d run into him at West Creek, no doubt in a hurry between meetings, he always took a minute to stop and say ‘hi’ and ask about the family. I’m grateful to have crossed paths with such an incredible, focused, smart, humble, and genuine person.”

Trent Hodges, colleague

“Mike was open about the economic conditions in which he grew up, and that openness gave him a credibility that few of us have. He understood the plight of the underserved, he cared, and he wanted to make a difference. We can honor his legacy by carrying that passion forward.”

Peter Gilbert, colleague

“Mike always wanted to be better. He worked hard, he was honest and humble—and he expected nothing to be given to him. He said what he thought and you could see how he felt.”

Sarah Strauss, colleague

“Everything from Mike was offered with the kind of humility that leaves you feeling lifted in spirit”

Kelli Sexton, colleague

Are you a hard-working student with experience overcoming challenges to achieve your goals? The Michael Wassmer Foundation is proud to award multiple $30,000 need-based scholarships annually to outstanding students in the Richmond area.

scholarship applications will open on January 15th, 2025