Mullen High School Celebrates Historic Gift Honoring Robert J. Welter
- Denver Catholic Staff
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
For nearly a century, Mullen High School has formed students in faith, knowledge and service, rooted in the vision of Saint John Baptist de La Salle. This fall, that mission has been given new strength through extraordinary generosity.
Mullen has announced a transformational $5.85 million gift from the RJW Charitable Fund, established by the late Denver attorney Robert J. “Bob” Welter. It is the largest single donation in the school’s history, a legacy that will touch generations of students.
“This donation is more than a dollar figure — it’s a bold investment in human potential,” said Raul Cardenas Jr., Ph.D., president and CEO of Mullen High School. “It affirms our shared belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to grow in knowledge, faith and purpose.”
The gift will establish the Robert J. Welter Scholarship Fund, enhance facilities, provide resources for faculty development and strengthen Mullen’s long-term sustainability. In recognition of Welter's extraordinary legacy, the high school will name its newest building Welter Hall — a modern space with classrooms, student collaboration areas and offices that will stand as a lasting sign of one man’s belief in Catholic education.
A member of Welter’s family reflected on that belief, saying, “This gift reflects Bob’s belief in the advantages made available to those who fully engage in their educational opportunities.”
A life shaped by perseverance and faith
Robert Welter’s story began on a farm in western Minnesota in 1941. One of five children, he contracted polio at a young age, an illness that left physical limitations he carried all his life. But where his body was hindered, his mind excelled.
He studied mathematics and law at the University of Minnesota, graduating with honors before beginning a distinguished career at the Denver law firm of Holme, Roberts and Owen. As a partner in the tax group, he became known not only for his legal acumen but also for his willingness to share his knowledge with others.
Outside the office, Welter enjoyed golf at the Denver Country Club, spirited conversations about politics and current events and time with family and friends — many of whose children he happily welcomed as “proxy-grandchildren.” Each Sunday, he could be found in his pew at Mother of God Parish in Denver, quietly living the faith that shaped his decisions.
At the end of his life, Welter ensured that his legacy would extend beyond himself. The majority of his estate was entrusted to the RJW Charitable Fund, with instructions to serve the needy of Denver, particularly children and the elderly. His gift to Mullen reflects his conviction that education is both a privilege and a responsibility — a way of equipping young people not only to succeed but to serve.
“This gift not only honors Mr. Welter’s memory but also accelerates the realization of our ambitious vision for the future,” said Catherine Planes, Mullen’s chief development officer. “We are excited to welcome our community to be part of this historic era.”
Carrying the mission forward
Founded in 1931, Mullen High School has always been a testament to Catholic generosity. Just as John Kernan and Catherine Mullen gave sacrificially to begin the school nearly 100 years ago, so too does Robert J. Welter’s gift mark a new chapter in that story of faith and philanthropy.
As Welter Hall rises on campus and scholarships open doors for students, Mullen is reminded that its mission has always depended on men and women willing to invest in young lives. Today, that mission continues — stronger, more hopeful and carrying forward the memory of a man whose generosity will shape the future of Catholic education in Denver.
