What are you going now (as alumna)?
I began working for the University of Portland about 3 months after I finished the MBA Nonprofit Program, so I’ve been working here for about 9 ½ years, the entire time in the Office of Development.
I started out strictly in charge of Donor Engagement and have assumed additional responsibilities to where I am now the Director of Advancement Services, overseeing our Donor Relations and Data Teams.
I feel blessed to spend each day helping make sure our donors feel appreciated and connected to the incredible students and programs they help to support.
Why did you choose the UP Pamplin MBA Nonprofit?
I was contemplating re-entering the workforce, after staying home with my children for 12 years. During my time at home I became heavily involved in volunteering at their schools, in the classroom, school advisory boards, and fundraising.
I had spent the first 10 years of my career in the financial services field and decided I wanted to pursue something more along the lines with my volunteering.
I felt this program would strengthen my knowledge of the non-profit sector and I have always loved UP.
Any advice for someone considering the program?
The program really opened my eyes to the non-profit world. There is so much more to running a successful non-profit than just having a passion for the cause.
We learned over and over the importance of a running a non-profit organization like a for-profit-business, and that financial stability is key to a successful non-profit.
One of my favorite parts of the program was the cohort model. We came from all different backgrounds and were all in different places in our careers. We learned a lot from one another, in addition to all the material we covered in our classes.