What are you doing now as an Alumnus?
While taking grad courses, I worked at the Blanchet House of Hospitality, a nonprofit that provides free meals and essential support to people experiencing homelessness. I was promoted to Assistant Executive Director when I graduated and have been thrilled to use the skills I gained at UP to help grow my organization during a time of great need. I am now in charge of day-to-day operations for an organization that serves 30,000 meals a month, has 45 transitional housing beds, and mobilizes more than 1,700 volunteers per year to serve those in need. Working at a small nonprofit means I am involved in every part of operations, so a Nonprofit MBA gave me the ability to better understand
Why did you choose UP Pamplin School of Business?
I knew I wanted to go back to school and to become a more effective advocate in the nonprofit space. I didn’t know there was such a thing as an MBA in Nonprofit Management until I found it at UP. Once I read through the curriculum and requirements, it seemed a natural fit. I could continue doing meaningful work, pay a reasonable rate for grad school, and complete a program alongside a cohort of mission-minded individuals. I valued the connections I made with fellow students as much as the course work, as nonprofit work is all about relationship building. Many of the assigned projects also allowed me to dig deeper into organizations I had interest in, as well as become more involved in my own organization.
Advice for someone considering a degree with UP Pamplin?
Be honest with yourself about your “why”. As someone working in homeless services, I hear many people say they want to get involved, but don’t know how to start or what to do. If you want to make a change in your career, take some time to really consider the “why” behind it. I knew I wanted to be mission focused on my career, and if that’s your “why” then I recommend this program. But there are many other great reasons to go to graduate school too, and the staff at UP was helpful as I was considering the program.
Jon in the NEWS
Jon Seibert has recently made various headlines through his work with the Blanchet House. Check out the media links below:
Volunteer opportunities at Blanchet House for kids during PPS strike – https://www.kptv.com/2023/11/03/volunteer-opportunities-blanchet-house-kids-during-pps-strike/
Blanchet House welcomes student volunteers during PPS teachers’ strike – https://www.koin.com/news/portland/blanchet-house-welcomes-student-volunteers-during-pps-teachers-strike/
Why mentally ill Portlanders are left in great need, on the streets – https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/why-mentally-ill-portlanders-are-left-in-great-need-on-the-streets/
Connect with Jon
To connect with Jon, please visit – https://blanchethouse.org/staff-page/jon-seibert/
Or email – jseibert@blanchethouse.org